At the beginning of the excerpt, the setting is described as somber with the shadow falling on the world and the sun hiding behind a thick cloud. However, this changes when there is a "shout of joy". It says that Umuofla "broke into life and activity." The setting is not necessarily being described as sad, tragic or bitter. These emotions are too strong for the image of the clouds rolling in. Also, the contrasting image of the people shouting for joy does not exude humor or compassion necessarily. Happy isn't enough since they are shouting. Therefore the best choice is "somber and joyous".
