The emotional atmosphere or feeling that a poem evokes in the reader.
Here's a breakdown of why this is the best definition:
* Emotional Atmosphere: Mood is not just a single emotion, but rather a complex blend of feelings that creates an overall atmosphere.
* Evocative: Mood is created through the poet's choices of language, imagery, sound devices, and structure. These elements work together to evoke specific emotions in the reader.
* Reader-centric: Mood is ultimately a subjective experience. Different readers might interpret the same poem and experience slightly different moods. However, the poet's choices aim to create a shared emotional experience for the audience.
Here are some examples of how mood is created in poetry:
* Imagery: A poem about a dark and stormy night will likely evoke a mood of gloom and suspense.
* Sound Devices: Poems with heavy use of harsh consonants might create a feeling of tension or anger, while poems with flowing vowel sounds could evoke a sense of peace or tranquility.
* Structure: A free verse poem might feel more spontaneous and informal, while a sonnet with a strict rhyme scheme could feel more formal and controlled.
Understanding mood is essential for interpreting poetry and appreciating the poet's craft. It allows us to delve deeper into the poem's meaning and connect with the emotions expressed within it.