Tone
Tone is a speaker’s attitude toward the subject matter (the “stuff” s/he is talking about).
Predict the tone:
For the most part, we can predict what a speaker’s tone will be, given the
context (in light of what’s going on, what is the speaker likely to be feeling) and
his/her personality (in light of his/her personality, what is the speaker likely to
be feeling)
Prove the tone:
To find evidence of the tone, the reader must be able to make inferences
based on an active reading of the work. Consider the following strategies by
which authors develop tone:
i.
by word choice (the connotations of the words). Look for:
words used that are unusually positive (“euphemistic”) or negative (“dysphemistic”) under the
circumstances.
 words that are part of a motif (“pattern”). What attitude might prompt the repetition of the
word/image?
ii.
by the subject matter (the connotations of the details described, as well as the implication of the
choice to include or exclude particular details). Look for:
 topics or details mentioned that are unexpected or seem motivated by emotional impulse, rather
than informational/story-telling impulse
 topics or details not developed that it would be reasonable to expect to be developed. What
motivated the speaker to avoid telling us (hide) something that seems to be called for by the
narrative?

Below you will find a partial list of words that describe tone.
The words are arranged into groups of
similar, but not identical terms. Browse the list and see if you can find a term that suits your impression of
the tone.
The attitude/tone
The attitude/tone
complimentary, proud
apprehensive, anxious, pensive, worried
angry, outraged, vexed
confident, arrogant, condescending, haughty,
enthusiastic, euphoric, excited, amused
Rebellious, stubborn, defiant,
critical, condemnatory, disapproving, contemptuous
bitter, cynical, doubtful, skeptical, dubious
interested, sympathetic, pitying
Bored, unimpressed
impartial, indifferent, objective
uncertain, confused, ambivalent
admiring, worshipful, approving
sad, upset, depressed, melancholy, despairing
resigned, calm, tranquil, quiet, peaceful, reticent
wistful, nostalgic, sentimental
afraid, fearful, horrific, terrified, panicked
apologetic, penitent