Here's why:
* Atmosphere refers to the overall feeling or emotional tone created by the author. It's the intangible quality that envelops the reader, influencing their perception of the story.
* Mood is a more general term referring to the feeling or emotional state that a piece of art evokes. It can be applied to literature, music, paintings, etc.
Both terms are essentially synonymous when describing the overall tone and emotional coloring of a piece of literature.
Examples:
* A story set in a dark, stormy night might have an atmosphere of suspense and fear.
* A poem about a joyful reunion might evoke a mood of happiness and contentment.
By understanding the atmosphere or mood of a work, readers can better grasp the author's intentions and appreciate the deeper meanings within the story.