What literary element often contributes to the mood of a text?

Imagery plays a significant role in shaping the mood of a text because it involves the use of descriptive language that creates vivid pictures in the reader's mind. When an author employs imagery, they evoke sensory experiences—sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell—that contribute to how a reader feels when engaging with the story. For example, a description of a stormy night with dark clouds and howling winds can establish a tense and ominous mood, while gentle descriptions of a sunny meadow can create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. When readers can visualize the scenes through rich and evocative imagery, it directly influences their emotional response and overall experience of the text. This connection makes imagery a powerful tool in mood-setting within literature.