By Nadine Gordimer

Point of View: Third person limitedSetting: South Africa during

ApartheidCharacters:

Mrs. Hattie Telford Students▪ The Spokesman - Dumile▪ Maid▪ Shadrack Nsutsha

Literary Analysis: Atmosphere Uncomfortable atmosphere between the

Hostess and her guests▪ Differences in race and social class▪ Black students ask for a ride; causes fleeting fear in Mrs.

Telford Yet, out of generosity, she offers them a ride and a meal

▪ Mrs. Telford is uncomfortable when she realizes her older Black female friends would be insulted if she brought them in through the back door and the kitchen.▪ tension due to fact that Mrs. Telford has a maid who waits

on her; she does not want the students to see the maid serve her lunch.

Vocabulary: Assent: n. expression of agreement Euphemisms: n. words or phrases that are

less expressive or direct but considered less distasteful or offensive than others

Furtively: adv. In a sneaky manner, as if to hinder observation

Revelation: n. Striking disclosure of something

Disposed: adj. inclined; tending toward

Vocabulary continued: Vehemently: adv. forcefully; intensely Deference: n. submission to the desires

or opinions of another. Perfunctorily: adv. Indifferently; with

little interest or care

Atmosphere or Mood – Literary Analysis In literature, atmosphere or mood refers

to the emotional quality of the world the author creates.

Atmosphere arises from descriptive details, setting , or plot, and often mirrors the emotions of characters themselves.