Table of ContentsIntroductionThe Deceptive Tone of NormalityThe Shift in Tone: Foreshadowing the Dark TurnThe Shocking Climax: The Final ToneConclusionIntroductionShirley Jackson's short story, "The Lottery," has captivated and disturbed readers ever since its publication in 1948. The story depicts a seemingly idyllic village, where a frightening ritual called "the lottery" takes place. Jackson masterfully manipulates tone to create an atmosphere of normalcy that masks the underlying brutality of the tradition. Through careful analysis of the story's tone, we can uncover the nuanced ways in which Jackson exposes the dangers of blindly following tradition and the potential for violence within seemingly peaceful communities. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Deceptive Tone of Normality Early on, Jackson establishes a tone of normalcy and familiarity in the village. Descriptions of the town square, people's interactions, and casual conversations all help to provide a sense of everyday life. This tone is crucial in lulling readers into a false sense of security, making the shocking climax even more shocking. For example, the opening lines of the story describe a beautiful summer day, with children playing and flowers blooming. The cheerful tone creates an expectation of innocence and joy, effectively masking the dark reality that lies beneath the surface. Casual conversations between the villagers further reinforce the tone of normalcy, as they discuss mundane topics like farming and household chores. All of these elements work together to create an atmosphere of tranquility, concealing the horror that awaits the reader. The Shift in Tone: Foreshadowing the Dark Turn As the story progresses, Jackson skillfully shifts the tone, gradually introducing subtle notes of unease and apprehension. This change is essential to prepare the reader for the abrupt shift in tone during the lottery itself. By gradually increasing the tension, Jackson increases the impact of the story's climax. An example of this shift in tone occurs when the black box, containing the slips of paper that determine the “winner” of the lottery, is presented. Jackson describes it as "shabby" and "broken", contrasting sharply with the initial tone of normalcy. This description serves as a metaphor for the fading tradition itself, hinting at the darkness that lies beneath the surface of a seemingly pleasant village. Additionally, as the lottery progresses, Jackson introduces subtle moments of hesitation and discomfort among the villagers. The tone becomes more worried as the crowd becomes aware of the consequences of the lottery. These moments foreshadow the unsettling climax, where the tone shifts dramatically from worry to horror. The Shocking Climax: The Final Tone The climax of “The Lottery” marks the most significant shift in tone. The once serene and familiar village suddenly transforms into a place of cruelty and violence. Jackson's use of tone during the climax is key to emphasizing the horror of tradition, forcing readers to confront the complacency and blind adherence to tradition that can lead to such atrocities. As lottery winner Tessie Hutchinson is selected, the tone becomes increasingly tense and ominous. The villagers' cheerful banter turns into a chilling silence and their behavior becomes increasingly threatening. Formerly friendly neighbors turn into a mob, enthusiastically participating in the stoning.