Sons and Lovers

by D. H. Lawrence

Sons and Lovers: 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
Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of Sons and Lovers is generally contemplative and solemn. Lawrence establishes mood primarily through figurative language and detailed, descriptive imagery, usually of the surrounding landscape or setting characters find themselves in. In the below passage from Chapter 6, for example, Lawrence uses vivid imagery to evoke grief and despair in the reader when Paul and the rest of his family wait for William's coffin to arrive:

Paul went to the bay window and looked out. The ash tree stood monstrous and black in front of the wide darkness. It was a faintly luminous night [...] There was the noise of the wheels. Outside in the darkness of the street below, Paul could see horses and a black vehicle, one lamp and a few pale faces then some men, all miners in their shirt sleeves, seemed to struggle in the obscurity. The yellow lamp of the carriage shone alone down in the black road.

Chapter 14
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of Sons and Lovers is generally contemplative and solemn. Lawrence establishes mood primarily through figurative language and detailed, descriptive imagery, usually of the surrounding landscape or setting characters find themselves in. In the below passage from Chapter 6, for example, Lawrence uses vivid imagery to evoke grief and despair in the reader when Paul and the rest of his family wait for William's coffin to arrive:

Paul went to the bay window and looked out. The ash tree stood monstrous and black in front of the wide darkness. It was a faintly luminous night [...] There was the noise of the wheels. Outside in the darkness of the street below, Paul could see horses and a black vehicle, one lamp and a few pale faces then some men, all miners in their shirt sleeves, seemed to struggle in the obscurity. The yellow lamp of the carriage shone alone down in the black road.

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