

Setting can have a distinct impact on the mood of a story. Here are some examples of how writers establish mood: SettingĪ story’s setting refers to its “physical” location and time frame in which it takes place. Though it may seem difficult to achieve mood in a story without being too overt or too subtle for readers, writers can rely on four techniques to craft this literary device. When writers establish mood, it should be consistent with the literary work so that the mood is not disjointed from the story yet remains emotionally accessible and resonant for readers. This response allows readers to experience emotion and connection within a story, making the literary work more meaningful and memorable. Does a character go about his work "carefully" or "doggedly?" All it takes is a single word choice to produce a tone shift.Mood is an essential literary device to bring cohesion to a story and create an emotional response in readers. The verbs "rain" and "downpour" also convey different tones. Consider how the nouns "man" and "freak" create entirely different feelings in the reader. When looking for tone shifts, look for key words. A single word - Any part of speech can be used to change the tone within a piece of literature.This use of subtext to create irony affects the tone, which in this case would be angry or regretful. If those same words were said by a character who has just been betrayed by their romantic partner, the words could be a contradiction to what they really mean. If a character says, "I love you, too," it would normally set a romantic tone. Instead of the tone being one of shock and surprise, it would be one of contempt. What if the date says, "I see you've met my brother," in an irritated manner. Attitude - A character's attitude can change how his words and actions affect the tone of the story.Perhaps the date calmly states, "I see you've met my brother." The mood has now changed to shock and surprise. Dialogue - Dialogue can also change the tone of a work.

If the woman suddenly leaves her date and passionately kisses the man while her date looks on, the mood becomes vengeful. Actions - Characters' actions can change the tone of a piece.If another man enters the restaurant, the mood can quickly shift from romantic to suspenseful - especially if readers know the second man is having an affair with the female character. If a romantically involved couple are having dinner, the tone is romantic.

Characters - Characters' actions can change the tone of a piece.The child clings to a rock in the middle of a raging torrent. The stream starts to rise quickly, turning into a flash flood.

The tone is nostalgic, comforting and happy. A young child plays in a shallow stream as his mother watches from nearby.
