What does an author's tone affect in literary work?

An author's tone significantly impacts the reader's emotional response and interpretation of the text. Tone refers to the attitude or approach the author takes toward the subject matter or the audience, which can be conveyed through word choice, sentence structure, and stylistic elements.

For example, a sarcastic tone might evoke humor or critique, whereas a serious tone may prompt reflection or empathy. This emotional resonance shapes how readers connect with the characters and themes presented in the work. By establishing a particular tone, the author guides readers in understanding the nuances of the narrative, thereby influencing their overall interpretation of the story's message.

In contrast, other options address aspects unrelated to tone. The book's publication date is a matter of external factors not influenced by the tone itself. The length of the novel does not correlate with tone, as a story can be lengthy or brief regardless of its emotional or stylistic approach. Similarly, the frequency of character dialogue pertains to the structure and pacing of the narrative, not the author's tone, which is a reflection of attitude rather than dialogue mechanics.