Define "mood" in literature.

Mood in literature refers to the emotional atmosphere that the author establishes through elements like word choice, imagery, and setting. This feeling can evoke various emotional responses in the reader—such as happiness, sadness, tension, or tranquility—based on how the author constructs the scene and the language they employ. By carefully selecting specific words and describing the environment, authors help to create a particular mood that enhances the overall experience of the narrative. This emotional connection is crucial as it can influence how readers interpret characters’ actions and the events that unfold in the story, adding depth and resonance to the text.