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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 House of Mirth
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of The House of Mirth is initially quite inconsistent and hard to gauge, as the narrator is so often satirical, ironic, or glib. Wharton’s readers are introduced first to the opulence and glamour of Gilded Age New York. They are shown the positive side of the high society depicted in the novel and introduced to the charming Lily Bart and Lawrence Selden. However, as the shallow values and rigid conventions of Lily's social circles are laid bare, an increasing sense of unease creeps in. The glitter of the elite world becomes less enchanting as the superficiality and moral bankruptcy of the people in Lily's life is revealed.
Related Themes:
