The Remains of the Day
by Kazuo Ishiguro

The Remains of the Day: 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 Remains of the Day

Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The Remains of the Day provokes remarkably different moods at different points in the story. Stevens's travels are often lighthearted and calm, and the friendliness of the strangers he meets while traveling promotes this hopeful and peaceful mood. Sometimes there's an awkwardness in how he interacts with those around him, both in the present-day portions of the story and in his flashbacks, and this can add a humorous element to the more lighthearted parts of the novel. There are not many dramatic events in the story, and even highly important or emotional scenes have an understated nature to them. This, alongside the clean descriptions and Stevens's levelheaded narration style, makes the mood peaceful.