In literary terms, what does 'mood' refer to?

Mood in literary terms refers to the overall feeling or atmosphere that a piece of literature conveys to its readers. It is the emotional response that the author aims to evoke through various elements such as word choice, imagery, and tone. When readers engage with a text, the mood influences how they feel as they navigate through the story, enhancing their experience and connection to the narrative.

For example, a dark and tense mood can be created through suspenseful language and vivid descriptions of a setting shrouded in mystery, whereas a cheerful and light mood may stem from playful dialogue and uplifting imagery. This emotional backdrop is essential for helping readers immerse themselves in the story, as it shapes their interpretations and reactions to events and characters throughout the text.