Question

What mood is created by this imagery in "After Twenty Years"? There was now a fine, cold drizzle falling, and the wind had risen from its uncertain puffs into a steady blow. The few foot passengers astir in that quarter hurried dismally and silently along with coat collars turned high and pocketed hands.
A dreamlike mood
B threatening mood
C elegant mood

Answer 1

A. a dreamlike mood.

Answer 2

Answer: I would contend that the right answer is actually the B) Threatening mood.

Explanation: Just to elaborate a little on the answer, it can be added that the imagery suggests the imminent outbreak of an inclemency, such as a storm, which certainly may represent a threat. The few people that were out walking hurried "dismally and silently," which also indicates the seriousness of the scene. By describing the weather in such sensorial way—one can almost feel the wind and hear the hasty steps of the pedestrians—the author successfully created a threatening mood.