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.