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Mood
Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
4. Mother
Explanation and Analysis—The Fire of LIfe:
Throughout Winesburg, Ohio, Anderson returns to the imagery of flame—usually as a metaphor to represent the power of life or the incendiary energy of a life force. Early on in the collection, in “Mother,” Anderson uses flame imagery to describe Elizabeth Willard’s wavering health:
She had been ill in bed for several days and her son had not come to visit her. She was alarmed. The feeble blaze of life that remained in her body was blown into a flame by her anxiety and she crept out of bed, dressed and hurried along the hallway toward her son’s room, shaking with exaggerated fears.
Related Themes:
22. Drink
Explanation and Analysis—The Fire of LIfe:
Throughout Winesburg, Ohio, Anderson returns to the imagery of flame—usually as a metaphor to represent the power of life or the incendiary energy of a life force. Early on in the collection, in “Mother,” Anderson uses flame imagery to describe Elizabeth Willard’s wavering health:
Unlock with LitCharts A+She had been ill in bed for several days and her son had not come to visit her. She was alarmed. The feeble blaze of life that remained in her body was blown into a flame by her anxiety and she crept out of bed, dressed and hurried along the hallway toward her son’s room, shaking with exaggerated fears.
Related Themes:
