In literary analysis, how is "tone" defined?

The concept of "tone" in literary analysis is defined as the author's attitude toward the subject matter. Tone is conveyed through the writer's choice of words, the details provided, and the overall style of the writing. It reflects how the author feels about the topic, which can be detected through language that suggests emotions such as joy, sadness, sarcasm, or seriousness. This attitude can significantly influence a reader's interpretation of the work and the emotional experience it evokes.

In contrast, the emotional atmosphere of a story refers to the mood, which is related but distinct from tone. The style of writing pertains more broadly to the techniques and characteristics of the author's expressions, while the cultural context involves the background and environment in which the work was created, rather than the author's specific attitude. Understanding tone is essential for interpreting the nuances of the text and grasping the underlying messages the author intends to communicate.