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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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
From the start, the mood of “Berenice” is gloomy and foreboding, especially given the fact that the narrator begins by lamenting the miserable state of the world. This sense of unease grows stronger as Egaeus becomes progressively more unstable, losing track of time and control. The more Egaeus struggles to make sense of his own mind, the deeper the reader’s apprehension grows. Poe incorporates elements of body horror that serve to elongate the tense dread saturating the narrative:
An icy chill ran through my frame; a sense of insufferable anxiety oppressed me; a consuming curiosity pervaded my soul; and sinking back upon the chair, I remained for some time breathless and motionless, with my eyes riveted upon her person. Alas! its emaciation was excessive, and not one vestige of the former being lurked in any single line of the contour. My burning glances at length fell upon the face.
Related Themes:
