Question

What contrasting tones is the author conveying?

Excerpt:

And then quite suddenly a shadow fell on the world, and the sun seemed hidden behind a thick cloud. But almost immediately a shout of joy broke out in all directions, and Umuofia… broke into life and activity.

Answer 1

I believe he is drawing a parallel between a tone of pure joy and the most depressing despair.

Answer 2

somber and joyous

Step-by-step explanation:

At first, a shadow falls on the world. Darkness takes place. Here the autor creates a feeling of somber. A heavy mood. Then a joyful one when "a shout of joy broke out in all directions". So those are two opposing or contrasting themes that the author uses in the excerpt.