Final answer:
Lyric poets establish mood by utilizing literary elements such as word choice, tone, and imagery, and through careful consideration of the poem's setting and musicality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lyric poets usually establish a mood, or atmosphere, by utilizing various literary elements such as word choice, tone, and imagery. The selection of words and the order in which they are arranged can evoke specific emotions and create a particular atmosphere, whether it is gloomy, happy, or tense. The poet carefully considers how each word sounds and feels, crafting a musical flow that enhances the emotional impact of the poem.
Additionally, the setting of the poem, which includes details about the time and place as well as physical and emotional environments, can significantly influence the mood. An author might use a dark and oppressive setting, much like in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher", to evoke feelings of confinement and depression. On the other hand, the poet's tone—the attitude or general character of the poem—plays a critical role in shaping the atmosphere. A shift in tone, even within a single line, can change the reader's perception and understanding of a poem, helping to establish a mood that aligns with the poem's theme and speaker's perspective.