What does "mood" refer to in literature?

In literature, "mood" refers to the emotional atmosphere created by the writer. It encompasses the feelings that the text evokes in the reader, influenced by elements such as word choice, imagery, and tone. A well-crafted mood can make the reader feel excited, tense, melancholic, or even nostalgic, depending on how the writer presents their ideas and descriptions.

Understanding mood is essential for readers as it enhances their engagement with the text and helps them connect more deeply with the characters and themes being explored. By analyzing the mood, readers can gain insight into the emotional landscape of the story and the experiences of the characters within it. This interpretation allows for a richer reading experience as it involves the reader's personal emotions and responses to the narrative.