How do I analyse the setting in a novel?

In order to analyse the setting in a novel, one must pay extra careful attention to the emotional and descriptive detail used by the author. For instance, if the author writes 'the wind howled and droplets of water splattered to the ground as the girl in the black jacket whimpered', students must pick out adjectives to help their understanding of the setting. The use of 'howled', 'splattered' and 'whimpered' are all negative connotations that indicate a mournful atmosphere. Students should use 'howling' as a means to display the immense power of the wind or in relation to the idea that it cried with the girl. They could use this in reference to pathetic fallacy or could highlight the mournful atmosphere the author has created.