On the Road
by Jack Kerouac

On the Road: 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:

A reader might expect that a novel about young men hitchhiking across North America to drink, party, meet women, and visit friends would be light and cheerful. But On the Road has moments that trigger profound frustration, sadness, and reflection in readers. Sal's reflections on social norms and attempts to either buck or adhere to these mores make the novel often feel hopeless.