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Shifts in Tone

Definition

Shifts in tone refer to changes in the author's attitude or emotional expression throughout a literary work, which can impact the overall mood and meaning.

Analogy

Imagine you're listening to your favorite song on shuffle mode. Suddenly, the upbeat rhythm turns melancholic, altering your mood. Similarly, shifts in tone in literature can surprise readers and evoke different emotions.

Related terms

Mood: The atmosphere or feeling created by a literary work.

Diction: The choice of words an author uses to convey their message and tone.

Irony: A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often used for humorous effect.

"Shifts in Tone" appears in:

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.