The Secret Life of Bees
by Sue Monk Kidd
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The Secret Life of Bees: 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 Secret Life of Bees

Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The Secret Life of Bees opens in a somewhat confusing mood. While Lily's early memories of her mother create a soft and nostalgic feeling, her present life with T. Ray is largely  a harsh and unwelcoming one. In her memories she’s able to recall small, yearning details that reveal how much she wants affection. However, this is immediately undercut by tension, as T. Ray abuses her and punishes her unfairly for minor mistakes. Lily is made to feel guilty for things that aren’t her fault regularly, just as she was for accidentally shooting her mother as a child.