What does "tone" refer to in literature?

In literature, "tone" refers to the author's attitude toward the subject. This can be communicated through word choice, sentence structure, and the details included or excluded. The tone helps shape the reader's perception of the narrative and can evoke specific emotions or insights, ultimately influencing how the reader interprets the work. For instance, a sarcastic tone might suggest irony, while a serious tone could indicate the weightiness of the subject being addressed.

Recognizing the tone is crucial for understanding the underlying messages and themes within a text, as it shapes the reader's engagement with the content. Analyzing the tone can lead to deeper discussions about character motivations and thematic significance within a story.