The setting of the novel really contributes to the mood and the interpretation that the reader makes about the different parts of the novel. The way the night is described when the narrator is out burning books and doing his job is entirely different from the way it is described when he is walking home with Clarisse. The change in the description of the setting changes the mood and makes the reader better understand the ideas the author is trying to convey.
When the narrator is out burning books the night is described in a very dark and depressing way. The sky is described to be red and yellow and black when the books are being set on fire. This puts a description of destruction and gloominess into the reader's mind. It is mentioned that as the books go up in flame their remains are swept into the wind which is made dark by their ashes. The image of dark wind, red and yellow and black flame, and sparks flying everywhere lends an air of mystery and unhappiness to the scene.
When the narrator chances upon Clarrise while rounding the corner later that night, the night is described in a more mysterious yet light kind of way. The scene that unfolds is described with autumn leaves dancing along the pavement and a soft moonlit glow. Clarisse almost has the appearance of floating as the leaves on the sidewalk dance slowly around her. This scene has a peaceful and mysterious feeling to it. The trees above them made great sounds and let down dry rain as Clarisse and Montag are standing there together, which lends a feeling of intimacy and surprise. The air as they walked is described as warm-cool and the pavement they walk on is described as silvery, which suggests loveliness and light.
The drastic difference between these two scenes greatly affects the book. It almost appears as though they're two totally different nights. This mood helps to show the reader that the moment Montag meets Clarisse is special and important.
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