What is a key characteristic of "Tone" in literature?

The concept of "tone" in literature refers to the author's attitude toward the subject matter and the audience, conveyed through their choice of words and style of expression. This tonal quality can evoke specific emotions or create particular atmospheres within a text, significantly influencing how readers perceive the narrative. The language style encompasses aspects such as diction, syntax, and figurative language, all of which contribute to establishing the tone.

For instance, a sarcastic tone may use sharp, witty language, while a solemn tone might rely on more formal and grave diction. By examining the author's language style, one can glean insights into the underlying emotions and attitudes present in the work, making it a key characteristic of tone.