Atmosphere

Introduction

Atmosphere in literature refers to the feeling, emotion, or mood a writer conveys to a reader through the description of setting and objects. In literary texts, the atmosphere can play a significant role in setting the tone and supporting the narrative. It is often developed through detailed descriptions of the scenery, background, settings, and objects within the environment. By carefully choosing words that evoke certain feelings or senses, authors can craft an immersive world that deeply resonates with the reader. This tool is especially important in genres such as horror, mystery, and romance, where the emotional setting drives the plot and influences the characters’ actions and reactions.

Pronunciation:
/ˈat.mə.sfiər/

When do writers use the Atmosphere literary device?

Writers employ the atmosphere literary device when they want to establish or enhance the emotional setting and tone of their narrative. This is crucial in genres where mood is a pivotal element, such as in horror, where a chilling atmosphere increases tension and fear; or in romance, where a dreamy, intimate setting can enhance the emotional depth of the narrative. Atmosphere also helps in foreshadowing events, creating suspense, or conveying a specific theme. For example, an oppressive, dark atmosphere might hint at impending doom or reflect the protagonist’s internal turmoil. By manipulating the atmosphere, writers can steer their readers’ emotions and prepare them for upcoming shifts in the story.

How should I use the Atmosphere literary device?

Rules for using the Atmosphere device

1. Identify the Emotion You Want to Convey: Start by deciding the mood that is appropriate for your scene or narrative. This mood should align with the overall themes of your story and the emotions you want to evoke in your readers.
2. Utilize Descriptive Language: Use vivid and descriptive language to paint your settings. Include sensory details—what characters see, hear, smell, touch, and taste—to create a more immersive atmosphere.
3. Consistency is Key: Ensure that the atmosphere is consistent throughout the scene or changes in a way that aligns with the story’s developments. Abrupt changes in atmosphere without clear narrative reasons can confuse the reader and disrupt the story flow.
4. Reflect Atmosphere through Characters: Show how the atmosphere affects your characters. Their reactions and adjustments to the atmosphere can deepen the mood and make it more realistic.
5. Subtlety Over Bluntness: While it’s important to be descriptive, subtlety can often be more effective in building an atmosphere. Let the mood unfold gradually through the setting and action rather than overt descriptions.
6. Employ Symbolism and Themes: Use the atmosphere to reinforce the themes and symbolism in your story. For example, a storm can symbolize chaos or conflict, and the calm after can signify resolution or clarity.

By carefully crafting the atmosphere, you not only enhance the aesthetic quality of your scenes but also deepen the reader’s emotional engagement and understanding of your narrative.

Types of Atmosphere

Atmosphere in literature can vary widely depending on the emotion or mood the author intends to convey. Here are some common types of atmospheres found in literary works:

1. Gothic Atmosphere: Characterized by a sense of mystery and terror, often accompanied by dark, brooding settings and supernatural elements. Castles, shadowy locales, and stormy weather are common in gothic atmospheres.
2. Romantic Atmosphere: Focused on beauty, emotion, and passion. These atmospheres often feature picturesque settings, lush landscapes, and a focus on sensuality and aesthetic pleasure.
3. Oppressive Atmosphere: A mood that feels heavy, stifling, or claustrophobic. This is often used in dystopian novels where settings can include totalitarian societies and the overwhelming control over the protagonists.
4. Surreal Atmosphere: Elements of the bizarre, unusual, or dream-like qualities are predominant. These atmospheres can distort reality to create a profound impact on the reader’s perception of the narrative.
5. Nostalgic Atmosphere: Evokes a sense of longing or fond remembrance, often tinged with sadness or melancholy. Settings can include old neighborhoods, schools, or any place imbued with personal or historical significance.

Each type of atmosphere can set the tone and influence the narrative’s direction, impacting how the reader feels about the characters and their journeys.

Atmosphere in Literature

Famous examples of atmosphere in literature include:

1. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë: The moody and wild landscapes of the Yorkshire moors set a gothic atmosphere, reflecting the turbulent and passionate nature of the story’s characters and plot.
2. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: The opulent, lavish parties at Gatsby’s mansion create an atmosphere of excess and disillusionment that pervades the novel.
3. “1984” by George Orwell: The grim, oppressive atmosphere of a totalitarian state amplifies the novel’s themes of surveillance and control.
4. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: The warm, dusty streets of Maycomb, Alabama, enhance the nostalgic and sometimes tense atmosphere reflecting the complexities of justice and racial prejudice.
5. “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier: Manderley, the grand yet eerie mansion, sets a haunting atmosphere that mirrors the suspense and mystery of the narrative.

Atmosphere in Children’s Books

In children’s books, the atmosphere helps to shape the imaginative realms that engage young readers:

1. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak: The dark and whimsical atmosphere of the wild things’ island captivates the adventurous spirit of childhood.
2. “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats: The serene, tranquil atmosphere of a snowy day encapsulates the wonder and quiet beauty of a child’s snowy adventure.
3. “Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling: The enchanting atmosphere of Hogwarts with its hidden corridors and magical classrooms significantly enhances the allure and mystery of the wizarding world.
4. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White: The warm, rustic atmosphere of the barn helps to underscore the themes of friendship and the cycle of life.
5. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg: The mystical and slightly surreal atmosphere of the winter train ride to the North Pole captures the essence of Christmas wonder.

Atmosphere in Poetry

Atmosphere in poetry enhances the emotive power and thematic depth of the poems:

1. “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe: The dark, ominous atmosphere accentuates the themes of grief and despair.
2. “Daffodils” by William Wordsworth: The joyful, uplifting atmosphere created by the imagery of vibrant flowers dancing in the breeze reflects the beauty of nature and its impact on the human spirit.
3. “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot: A bleak, desolate atmosphere mirrors the confusion and despair of the post-World War I era.
4. “Ode to a Nightingale” by John Keats: The lush, sensual atmosphere complements the themes of transcendence and the fleeting nature of beauty and happiness.
5. “Mending Wall” by Robert Frost: The cold, distant atmosphere emphasizes themes of isolation and the barriers we build between ourselves and others.

Atmosphere in Songs

Here are ten famous songs that exemplify the use of atmosphere through their music and lyrics:

1. “Hotel California” by Eagles – The eerie and mysterious atmosphere evokes a sense of unease and surrealism.
2. “Purple Rain” by Prince – The moody and emotional atmosphere reflects themes of sorrow and longing.
3. “Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen – Captures a feeling of youthful restlessness and the urge to escape.
4. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen – A dramatic, opera-like atmosphere that shifts from melancholic to rebellious.
5. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin – The ethereal and mystical atmosphere enhances the song’s spiritual overtones.
6. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen – A solemn and reflective atmosphere imbues deep emotional resonance.
7. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson – The dark, mysterious atmosphere underscores the song’s narrative of scandal and intrigue.
8. “Riders on the Storm” by The Doors – A haunting and introspective atmosphere fits the song’s themes of peril and introspection.
9. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses – An atmosphere of melancholy and longing permeates this rock ballad.
10. “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey – Captures a wistful, melancholic atmosphere reflecting themes of love and nostalgia.

Atmosphere in Movies

Some iconic movies are known for their distinctive atmospheres:

1. “Blade Runner” (1982) – The futuristic and noir atmosphere enhances the dystopian world.
2. “The Shining” (1980) – A chilling, oppressive atmosphere amplifies the psychological horror.
3. “Amélie” (2001) – A whimsical, charming atmosphere pervades this enchanting narrative.
4. “Se7en” (1995) – The grim, foreboding atmosphere suits its dark, thriller genre.
5. “The Godfather” (1972) – An atmosphere of tension and suspense underlines the themes of power and corruption.
6. “Inception” (2010) – A complex, layered atmosphere reflects the intricacies of the dream worlds.
7. “Pirates of the Caribbean” (2003) – An adventurous and mystical atmosphere complements the swashbuckling narrative.
8. “Gravity” (2013) – The vast, isolated atmosphere accentuates the survival theme in space.
9. “The Grand Budapest Hotel” (2014) – A vivid, stylized atmosphere that enhances the quirky, comedic tale.
10. “Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015) – A chaotic, anarchic atmosphere drives the intense action and post-apocalyptic setting.

Famous Movie Line Highlighting Atmosphere

“I love the smell of napalm in the morning.” – Lt. Col. Bill Kilgore (Robert Duvall), “Apocalypse Now” (1979)

This line effectively captures the dark, war-torn atmosphere of Vietnam War, highlighting the character’s chilling embrace of the chaos around him.

Relevant Movie Clip Demonstrating Atmosphere

This clip from “Blade Runner” showcases the film’s iconic atmospheric elements, including its futuristic cityscape and moody lighting.

Atmosphere in Advertising

Famous examples of atmosphere in advertising include:

1. Apple’s “1984” Commercial – A dystopian, oppressive atmosphere to introduce the Apple Macintosh as a symbol of freedom.
2. Guinness “Surfer” Commercial – Captures a dramatic and intense atmosphere with powerful waves and a gripping narrative.
3. Coca-Cola “Holidays are Coming” Christmas Ad – A warm, joyful atmosphere that evokes nostalgia and the spirit of the holiday season.
4. Chanel No. 5 “The One That I Want” Commercial – A glamorous, sophisticated atmosphere highlights luxury and romance.
5. Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaigns – An inspiring, motivational atmosphere is created to empower athletes and individuals alike.

Atmosphere Related Literary Devices

1. Tone – Refers to the author’s attitude towards the subject, which significantly affects the atmosphere by influencing how the setting is perceived.
2. Imagery – The use of vivid or figurative language to represent objects, actions, or ideas, contributing significantly to the creation of a specific atmosphere.
3. Pathetic Fallacy – A form of personification where nature or the environment is depicted possessing human emotions, directly enhancing the atmospheric mood.
4. Symbolism – The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities, indirectly contributing to the atmosphere by adding deeper meanings to the objects within the narrative.
5. Foreshadowing – A device used to hint at future events, which can create an atmosphere of suspense or anticipation.