Nathaniel Hawthorne's sets a tone by way of eloquently placed adjectives, and use if terms such as; "sad-colored garments," "throng," and "heavily timbered with oak," In The Scarlet Letter. The first paragraph of a solid piece of literature often sets the foundation for the work, as well as giving the reader valuable insight into the setting, and mood of the piece. .
Hawthorne manipulates the reader's senses with the word "sad-colored,".
taking two completely opposite terms and combining them creating a vivid .
mood. He uses the word "sad-colored garments" in context with clothes. The uniformity of the colors that the people are wearing indicates that an event is taking place. Also, specific groups of people tend to dress similarly, possibly suggesting .
that they are from the same religious background. The "sadness" of the colors might even indicate the age group of these men/women. "Sad-colored" not only tells of .
the color of the garments but also of the mood itself. The very word "sad" depicts.
a specific feeling, but Hawthorne combines this feeling with a visual aspect thereby giving the reader a clearer picture, and enabling the reader to become more emotionally involved. .
While referencing a group, Hawthorne chooses to use a more colorful .
adjective; "throng" which is much more descriptive then "A group of people" The terminology paints a distinct picture, suggesting that the group is not just loitering .
around for no given purpose, but instead is assembled for a specific reason, the assumption is again strengthened by the use of words indicating that similar attire .
is being worn. Which implies that this gathering of people possess some sort .
of significance and/or importance. By that, it can be assumed that an event or happening of some sort, is taking place, or is about to take place. .
Hawthorne then describes the door of the edifice in which this "throng" of .
people in "sad-colored" clothes is gathered.
