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November 1, 2023 
Writing
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Whenever we pick up a book, start an article, or get lost in a poem, we’re introduced to the world of “author’s tones.”
But what does this term mean?
In the simplest of words, an author’s tone refers to the mood or emotion conveyed through their choice of words. Think of it as the soundtrack of a movie. It sets the scene and influences our emotions. Understanding the different types of author’s tones allows readers to enjoy a richer, more informed experience.
Authors Tones
Let’s look at some of the timeless and successful authors’ tones suggested by Urban Book Publishers.
Joyful/Exuberant
Step into the radiant world of joyful and exuberant author’s tones. These tones light up the pages with positivity, optimism, and sheer happiness. These tones aim to uplift, whether through a cheerful narrative or a hopeful poem.
Example: One can’t help but feel uplifted when reading Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter. This story, rooted in the essence of joy, introduces us to Pollyanna’s infectious “glad game.”
How it affects readers: Encountering a joyful author’s tone can be like a splash of sunshine on a gloomy day, instantly brightening our mood and infusing us with hope.
Melancholic/Somber
We find the melancholic and somber tones in the more shadowed corners of the author’s tones. These aren’t about the bright and cheery moments but the deep, reflective, and sometimes sorrowful ones. A melancholy tone can make you feel like you’re wrapped in a soft blanket on a rainy day, lost in thought.
Example: Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven” is a masterpiece that beautifully showcases a somber tone. The poem dives deep into the realms of loss and longing through haunting verses and a relentless raven’s cry.
How it affects readers: Melancholic authors’ tones often resonate with our sadness or introspection. They make us pause, think, and maybe even shed a tear. But more than anything, they connect with our hearts, reminding us of the shared human experience of sorrow.
Humorous/Satirical
Getting into the lighter side of the author’s tones, the humorous and satirical tones beckon. They playfully poke fun, exaggerate for effect, or use irony to convey a message, often making readers chuckle or ponder simultaneously.
Example: Candide by Voltaire springs to mind when thinking of satirical author’s tones. Through its exaggerated characters and ridiculous situations, the novel critiques society in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.
How it affects readers: The beauty of humorous or satirical authors’ tones lies in their ability to make readers laugh while prompting them to think. They challenge norms and conventions in a light-hearted way, leaving readers both amused and enlightened.
Suspenseful/Tense
let’s talk about the suspenseful and tense author’s tones.
What’s so special about them?
They’re like that favorite movie that keeps you guessing. They pull readers in, making them flip through pages quickly, always curious about what’s coming next.
Example: Take, for instance, Edgar Allan Poe’s The Tell-Story Heart. This story is a classic example of how suspense works in writing. Every beat of the heart, every rising tension, and the main character’s struggles make you want to read more and more.
How it affects readers: These suspenseful tones give you that same feeling. Ups, downs, and unexpected turns keep you on the edge of your seat. The mix of not knowing and wanting to know keeps readers glued to every word.
Sarcastic/Ironic
Sarcasm and irony bring a unique flavor to the palette of the author’s tones. They say one thing but imply another, adding layers of meaning that require readers to think a bit deeper, often revealing a clever or critical commentary on a subject.
Example: Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is an exquisite showcase of an ironic author’s tone. From the very first line, Austen uses irony to critique societal norms and expectations.
How it affects readers: Engaging with sarcastic or ironic author’s tones can be a delightful challenge. It prompts readers to look beyond the obvious, catching the hidden meanings and subtle critiques. It’s like a playful nudge from the author, saying, “Think about this a bit more.”
Objective/Neutral
We sometimes come across writings that stand out for their lack of emotional coloring: the objective and neutral tones. These tones present facts, ideas, or narratives without swaying towards any particular emotion, offering a clear, unbiased perspective.
Example: Scientific journals, encyclopedias, and many non-fiction articles employ an objective author’s tone. The focus here is on presenting information as it is, without personal bias or emotional flavor.
How it affects readers: An objective author’s tone instills trust and credibility. Readers who encounter this tone feel assured that they receive reliable information directly. It’s like having a calm, factual conversation with someone who doesn’t let emotions cloud the topic.
Intimate/Personal
As we journey into the author’s tones, we stumble upon the intimate and personal tones. These tones are akin to whispered secrets or heartfelt confessions, making readers feel the author shares a private piece of their soul.
Example: Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar beautifully exemplifies an intimate Author’s tone. Through the protagonist’s journey, Plath offers a deeply personal insight into her struggles, making readers feel closely connected to the narrative.
How it affects readers: An intimate author’s tone builds a bridge of empathy and understanding. It invites readers into the author’s world, allowing them to see through their eyes and feel through their hearts. This tone fosters a deep, emotional connection, making the reading experience memorable.
Angry/Indignant
Moreover, we stumble upon intense and passionate tones: the angry and indignant ones.
So, what’s special about these tones? Well, they’re like a fiery speech. They speak up loudly when they see something wrong or unfair.
Example: Look at John Steinbeck’s book, The Grapes of Wrath. This book is a great example of a passionate and indignant tone. Why? Because it tells the tough story of the Joad family. As they face many challenges, Steinbeck uses his words to show his strong feelings about unfairness in society.
How it affects readers: Reading a book with an angry or indignant tone can make you feel something powerful. It’s not just about getting lost in a story. It’s about feeling the need to think, to reflect, and maybe to make a change. It is like the author is saying, “Hey, look at this issue. It’s important!”
Hopeful/Inspirational
As we conclude our exploration of the author’s tones, we encounter hopeful and inspirational tones. These tones sparkle with optimism, encouraging readers to believe in brighter days ahead and the potential within themselves.
Example: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a radiant beacon of a hopeful author’s tone. It tells the story of Santiago, a shepherd, on his quest to find a hidden treasure. Along the way, he learns about following one’s dreams and listening to one’s heart.
How it affects readers: A hopeful author’s tone is like a gentle hand on the back, nudging readers forward. It fills hearts with optimism, making readers believe that with perseverance and faith, they can overcome challenges and reach their dreams.
Curious/Inquisitive
We next encounter the curious ones. These tones sparkle with a thirst for knowledge and a zest to dive into the unknown.
For example, consider Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. This story perfectly encapsulates a curious author’s tone. As we journey with Alice through the whimsical and often baffling Wonderland, her numerous questions and adventures reflect the author’s wonder about the world around him.
How it affects readers: When readers immerse themselves in writings marked by a curious tone, it’s like embarking on a journey of discovery. It prompts questions, fuels exploration, and kindles a burning desire to learn more. Such a tone is a gentle nudge, urging readers to embrace their sense of wonder.
Conclusion
The author’s tones are the core of any written content, adding depth, emotion, and layers of meaning. From the joyous highs to the reflective lows, these tones take readers on a journey of emotions. By recognizing and appreciating them, we enrich our reading experience, allowing us to connect more deeply with the narrative and, often, with ourselves.
