Tone
The writer's attitude, perspective, or emotional stance toward the subject matter, which is conveyed through word choice, punctuation, rhythm, imagery, and overall voice. Tone shapes how readers experience and interpret a text.
Real World
In Blake's 'London', the relentlessly bitter, indicting tone — sustained through words like 'chartered', 'curse', and 'blights' — positions the reader to share the speaker's outrage at social injustice rather than view it neutrally.
Exam Focus
Distinguish tone from mood in your answer: state the author's attitude, then separately explain the emotional effect on the reader.
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