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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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina is grand but contemplative. Much of the novel deals with grand soirées, exclusive drawing rooms, and aristocratic events, such as the horse race and the French opera. The characters live in the confines of societal grandeur, where they waltz at balls and gossip at salons.
The novel also projects a contemplative mood, particularly in how it considers topics such as Christianity, philosophy, right and wrong, forgiveness, and even love. With an unprecedented stream-of-consciousness technique, the narrative is able to fixate on the characters' thoughts and opinions. For example, when Vronsky rejects Kitty and breaks her heart, the reader goes on a journey of depression, religious fervor, and finally self-awareness with Kitty. The reader contemplates along with Kitty what life means after rejection and how she can move forward with contentment.
Moreover, the mood is often depressing, making this novel an emotionally challenging endeavor for any reader. The challenges that the characters face include grief, betrayal, fear, suicidal thoughts, madness, and depression. At the end of the novel, many of the characters meet unhappy endings. When Anna takes her own life, Vronsky and Karenin are left to grieve her death. Her daughter Annie and son Seryhozha are left motherless. Dolly is left with her her negligent husband Stiva and therefore several children to care for on her own. The only characters with happy endings are Levin and Kitty, who bear resemblance to Tolstoy and his wife Sonya.
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