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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
Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood in The Song of Achilles, akin to the novel's narrative tone, is distinctly different before and after Thetis reveals the truth about Achilles's prophesied death. Before Thetis's revelation, the mood is light, happy, and hopeful, influenced by the blush of young love and Patroclus's positive outlook on the future. Note how Patroclus and Achilles speak to one another in the following passage from Chapter 10, confident in their affection for one another and in their relationship:
[Achilles'] eyes opened. “Name one hero who was happy.”
I considered. [...]
“You can’t.” He was sitting up now, leaning forward.
“I can’t.”
“I know. They never let you be famous and happy.” He lifted an eyebrow.
“I’ll tell you a secret.”
“Tell me.” I loved it when he was like this.
“I’m going to be the first.”
After Thetis's revelation, the mood promptly becomes a combination of aggrieved, brooding, and resigned. While Achilles and Patroclus attempt to maintain their youthful optimism, it appears impossible in the face of such prophecy. Note Patroclus' use of language in Chapter 15, signifying his despairing mood:
Grief swelled inside me, choking me. His death. I felt as if I was dying just to think of it, plummeting through a blind, black sky. You must not go. I almost said it, a thousand times. Instead I held his hands fast between mine; they were cold, and very still.
Readers no doubt experience this drop in mood with Patroclus; until now, unless familiar with The Iliad and its characters, readers might have expected Achilles and his lover to live happily ever after. When Thetis reveals that this will not happen, the reader's mood likely shifts to mirror that of Patroclus and Achilles, deeply disappointed that the young couple will not see their love realized in the long run.
Related Themes:
