Previous
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 Underground Railroad
Chapter 2: Georgia
Explanation and Analysis:
With its use of figurative language, narrative voice, and plot, the The Underground Railroad is meditative and cynical. The journey through which Cora finally stumbles to freedom—five states, hundreds of miles, thousands of dead Black bodies—is devastating in itself, but the novel moves beyond sentimental simplicity. During stretches of narration, the work frequently steps back to give space for its characters’ own thoughts. Many of them offer blunt appraisals, as when Cora reflects on Jockey’s “celebrations”:
Once you got that old, you might as well be ninety-eight or a hundred and eight. Nothing left for the world to show you but the latest incarnations of cruelty.
Related Themes:
Chapter 8: Tennessee
Explanation and Analysis:
With its use of figurative language, narrative voice, and plot, the The Underground Railroad is meditative and cynical. The journey through which Cora finally stumbles to freedom—five states, hundreds of miles, thousands of dead Black bodies—is devastating in itself, but the novel moves beyond sentimental simplicity. During stretches of narration, the work frequently steps back to give space for its characters’ own thoughts. Many of them offer blunt appraisals, as when Cora reflects on Jockey’s “celebrations”:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Once you got that old, you might as well be ninety-eight or a hundred and eight. Nothing left for the world to show you but the latest incarnations of cruelty.
Related Themes:
