The Interlopers
by Saki

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The Interlopers: 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

Key Examples in The Interlopers

Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of “The Interlopers” at the beginning of the story is very ominous. The threat of violence is introduced early, as the rivalry between Ulrich and Georg is longstanding and explosive. The information given about their conflict makes it clear that the story will involve further tension between them, which creates an atmosphere of suspense. Near the story’s beginning, one passage makes it clear how deeply their hatred runs: 

[...] as boys they had thirsted for one another’s blood, as men each prayed that misfortune might fall on the other, and this wind-scourged winter night Ulrich had banded together his fosters to watch the dark forest, not in quest of four-footed quarry, but to keep a look out for the prowling thieves whom he suspected of being afoot from across the land boundary.