The Swimmer

by John Cheever

The Swimmer: 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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of “The Swimmer” shifts significantly over the course of the story. It opens on a lighthearted note as Neddy sits by his friends’ pool with his wife on a beautiful summer day in the suburbs. The mood stays in a joyful place as Neddy decides to swim his way across the suburban county, hopping from one pool to the next, enjoying free drinks and lighthearted (if slightly vapid) conversation with the pool owners as he goes.