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Imagery
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 Her First Ball
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood shifts throughout the short story as Leila’s initial enthusiasm becomes tempered by her sobering conversation with the old man and her subsequent reaction. Throughout the narrative, the mood shifts from exciting and energetic to sad and heavy. At the beginning of “Her First Ball,” Leila’s exuberant enthusiasm leads the reader to feel Leila’s excitement for the ball. Readers share in her excitement as she enters the dance hall to seemingly magical scenes of the band warming up and the ladies getting ready in the dressing room.
However, the mood becomes rather hesitant and dark as Mansfield points out the flaws of the ball, yet Leila maintains her excitement and idealized vision of it. For example, after her first dance, Leila is elated. Yet, it is clear that her partner is not enjoying himself:
Certainly her partner did not say very much. He coughed, tucked his handkerchief away, pulled down his waistcoat, took a minute thread off his sleeve. But it didn’t matter.
Related Themes:
