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Metaphors
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 The Birthmark
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of "The Birthmark" is initially foreboding as the reader learns of Aylmer's obsessive tendencies and disturbing dreams. Early in the story, Aylmer fixates so strongly on the birthmark that he cannot escape it whether he is asleep or awake. In the following passage, the narrator makes it clear that Aylmer's neurotic imagination turns the birthmark into a real-life problem:
In this manner, selecting it as the symbol of his wife’s liability to sin, sorrow, decay, and death, Aylmer’s sombre imagination was not long in rendering the birthmark a frightful object, causing him more trouble and horror than ever Georgiana’s beauty, whether of soul or sense, had given him delight.
Related Themes:
