The mood of a poem involves the emotional atmosphere created by the writer, influenced by imagery, details, language, and the setting. To determine the mood, consider the reader's emotional reaction, the poem's story or theme, and the tone set by the writer. Confessional and melancholic tones, for example, evoke specific emotional responses.
The mood of a poem is the emotional atmosphere that the writer creates for the reader, and it can greatly affect the reader's perception of the work. In analyzing the mood of Eliot's poem, consider your initial emotional reaction, whether the poem is telling a story, expressing thoughts, or playing with language, as well as the seriousness and tone. For example, the tone could be meditative, inquisitive, or confessional, each evoking different moods from the reader.
When considering the mood, look for imagery, details, and language that contribute to the atmosphere. If the poem mentions 'dreary' or 'aweary' alongside 'dead' and 'said', it likely conveys a mood of melancholy or desolation. The setting can also influence the mood—whether it's a lively environment or a desolate one, which in turn affects the emotions portrayed by the characters.
Finally, consider poems like Plath's from her 'Ariel' collection, which are known for their intense emotions. They often reflect a profound sense of anger or melancholy, as Plath explored themes of identity, depression, and patriarchal authority, which contribute significantly to the mood.