Which of the following describes the tone of a piece of writing?

The tone of a piece of writing refers to the emotional quality or attitude that the writer conveys through their choice of words, style, and perspective. It shapes the reader's perception of the subject matter and can range from formal and serious to informal and humorous, among many other nuances.

When considering the options, the mood created by the writer encapsulates this definition precisely, as it directly relates to the emotional atmosphere that the text evokes. The writer's tone influences how the reader responds to the content, helping to establish a connection and impart meaning beyond the literal words used.

The other options address different aspects of writing. The level of detail pertains to how much information is included, which affects comprehension but does not directly inform the emotional quality. The specific genre relates to the categorization of the text (such as fiction or non-fiction) but does not dictate tone by itself. The historical context could impact the themes or ideas presented but is separate from the tone, which is more focused on the writer's attitude and emotive essence within the writing.