How the Other Half Lives

by Jacob A. Riis

How the Other Half Lives: 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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood throughout How the Other Half Lives is consistently a serious and somber one—justifiably so, given the subject matter Riis took upon himself to discuss. In particular, the passages detailing specific instances of death, disease, or other suffering maintain this somber mood. As a persuasive piece, this is fitting. It would not do, after all, for Riis to treat such suffering with anything less than the consideration and solemnity it requires.