A Rose for Emily Tone Analysis

A Rose for Emily, written by William Faulkner, is a captivating short story that explores the life of the eccentric Emily Grierson in the fictional town of Jefferson. Faulkner's masterful use of tone throughout the story contributes to its haunting and mysterious atmosphere. The tone of A Rose for Emily is predominantly somber, melancholic, and nostalgic, with hints of pity and sympathy for the protagonist. This essay will analyze the various instances where the tone of the story is evident, and discuss their implications on the overall narrative.

The Somber Tone

From the very beginning of the story, a somber tone is established, creating a sense of gloom and sadness. Faulkner describes the decaying house of the Grierson family as "an eyesore among eyesores" (Faulkner, 1930), emphasizing the deterioration and decline of both the physical and social aspects of Emily's life. This somber tone sets the stage for the tragic events that unfold throughout the narrative, as it foreshadows the unhappiness and despair that Emily experiences.

Furthermore, the somber tone is reinforced by the reactions of the townspeople towards Emily. Faulkner writes, "the men through a sort of respectful affection for a fallen monument, the women mostly out of curiosity" (Faulkner, 1930), highlighting the pity and sympathy that the townspeople feel towards Emily. This tone of pity and sympathy adds to the overall melancholic atmosphere of the story, as it underscores the tragic circumstances surrounding Emily's life.

The Melancholic Tone

In addition to the somber tone, Faulkner also employs a melancholic tone throughout the story. This tone is particularly evident when describing Emily's relationship with her father. Faulkner writes, "We remembered all the young men her father had driven away, and we knew that with nothing left, she would have to cling to that which had robbed her, as people will" (Faulkner, 1930). Here, the melancholic tone conveys the sense of loss and longing that Emily experiences, as she clings onto the memory of her father and the life she once had.

The melancholic tone is also present when Emily's relationship with Homer Barron is revealed. Faulkner describes their courtship as a "disgrace to the town" and emphasizes the scandalous nature of their relationship (Faulkner, 1930). This melancholic tone adds to the sense of tragedy in the story, as it depicts Emily's desperate attempt to hold onto love and companionship, even if it means resorting to extreme measures.

The Nostalgic Tone

Throughout A Rose for Emily, Faulkner incorporates a nostalgic tone, which further enhances the overall atmosphere of the story. This tone is evident when the narrator recalls events from Emily's past, such as her father's death and her refusal to accept it. Faulkner writes, "She told them that her father was not dead. She did that for three days" (Faulkner, 1930). This nostalgic tone evokes a sense of longing for the past and highlights Emily's inability to let go of her past traumas.

The nostalgic tone is also present when the townspeople discover the room in Emily's house that has been locked for years. Faulkner describes it as a "time capsule" that contains remnants of Emily's past, such as her wedding dress and a man's suit (Faulkner, 1930). This nostalgic tone adds depth to the story, as it reveals Emily's desire to preserve the memories of her past and maintain a connection to a time that no longer exists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the tone of A Rose for Emily plays a crucial role in creating the haunting and mysterious atmosphere of the story. The somber, melancholic, and nostalgic tones contribute to the overall sense of tragedy and loss that surrounds Emily's life. Faulkner's masterful use of tone enhances the reader's understanding of the complex emotions and experiences of the protagonist. By analyzing the various instances where the tone is evident, we gain a deeper appreciation for Faulkner's storytelling prowess and the lasting impact of A Rose for Emily.

Works Cited:

Faulkner, William. "A Rose for Emily." Collected Stories of William Faulkner. Vintage, 1930.