What is Tone?
Tone refers to the writer's attitude or feeling towards the subject matter.
The Writing Mood: A Closer Look at Tone
Tone is the way a writer approaches their work, expressing their attitude and emotions towards the subject matter.
Usually identified through word choice or syntax, tone can convey a wide range of moods, from joyful and lighthearted to melancholic and ominous. It’s what makes a story feel dry, or intriguing, or even creepy.
Knowing how to effectively establish tone is a crucial tool in any writer's toolbox.
In his satirical novel, Heller uses a sardonic tone to highlight the absurdities of war and bureaucracy during World War II.
His writing is clever and often funny, but the underlying message is serious and critical of the way people in power handle things. Examples of this tone can be found in the characters' dialogues and in the overall narration.
Poe uses a melancholic and ominous tone in his famous poem to convey the narrator's sense of dread and despair.
The repetitive language and eerie imagery create an unsettling feeling throughout the entire piece, keeping the reader on edge until the very end.