A Streetcar Named Desire
by Tennessee Williams

A Streetcar Named Desire: Mood 1 key example

Definition of Mood

The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect of a piece of writing... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes... read full definition

Key Examples in A Streetcar Named Desire

Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

In A Streetcar Named Desire, the mood starts out hopeful amid the nerves and friendliness of a family reunion, but it transitions to an overpowering sense of oppression and violence. When Blanche first appears in New Orleans, the mood is somewhat cheerful, as she wants to put the past behind her and try to move on from her recent history of loss and degradation. The audience feels hope as Blanche arrives at the Kowalski residence with her sister Stella. This hope dims a little, though, when Stanley begins to acts suspicious of her, but the situation doesn’t seem too serious at first. For a brief while, there’s a real sense that things might be looking up for the older DuBois sister, especially when she starts dating Mitch.