In writing, what does 'tone' refer to?

Tone refers to the author's attitude toward the subject matter or audience, and it plays a crucial role in how a piece of writing is perceived by readers. This attitude can be conveyed through various elements, including word choice, sentence structure, and even punctuation, but it is fundamentally about how the author feels about the topic they are discussing or the people they are addressing. A tone can be formal, informal, serious, playful, sarcastic, and many other variations, which communicate specific emotions and influences the reader's response to the text.

Understanding tone is essential for interpreting the nuances of a piece, as it adds depth and meaning beyond the literal content. For instance, a humorous tone might engage readers more and create a sense of relatability, while a somber tone could evoke feelings of empathy or seriousness regarding a particular issue. Recognizing the tone helps readers understand the author's perspective and intentions more clearly.

The other options touch on important aspects of writing; however, they do not define tone. The choice of words relates to diction, organization pertains to structure, and the time period of writing refers to historical context, all of which are relevant but distinct from the concept of tone.