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 Everyday Use
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of “Everyday Use” is lighthearted with some underlying tension. The lightheartedness comes from the ironic and comedic elements of the story, such as the clashing of Dee and Hakim-a-barber’s embracing of the Black Power movement (as seen in their clothes, hairstyles, and chosen names) and Mama and Maggie’s practical and down-to-earth relationship to their Blackness and everyday lives. The story’s joviality also stems from the fact that Mama is glad to have her daughter home for a visit and that Dee is genuinely enjoying aspects of her family—and their home—that she loathed in the past (such as her grandmother’s quilts and other family heirlooms).