What constitutes the tone of a literary work?

The tone of a literary work is defined by the author's attitude toward the subject matter and the characters within the narrative. It shapes the reader's perception and feelings about the themes and events of the story. By establishing a particular tone—whether it be joyful, somber, ironic, or serious—the author guides readers in interpreting the narrative and understanding the underlying messages. This attitude can be conveyed through word choice, style, and the details the author chooses to emphasize.

Understanding tone is essential for a deeper comprehension of the text, as it can profoundly influence the emotional and intellectual engagement of the reader with the content. The other options, while relevant to the experience of literature, do not specifically define tone; they refer to aspects like audience reaction, plot development, or narrative complexity, none of which directly encapsulate the author's perspective on the subject.