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Style
Definition of Tone
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical, and so on. For instance... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical... read full definition
Key Examples in Bernice Bobs Her Hair
Tone
Explanation and Analysis:
The tone of “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” is initially lighthearted and playful, mirroring the frivolous, superficial nature of the social interactions at the heart of the story. This tone aligns with the early scenes in which the social milieu is silly and inconsequential. The narrator’s voice feels dismissive and arch as Fitzgerald’s characters play banal and competitive social games. As the story progresses, however, the tone shifts to feel more serious, especially when Bernice overhears her peers discussing her in less-than-flattering terms. This moment marks a turning point, and the narrator’s voice becomes more intent and less flippant. After the protagonist is called out for lying about intending to get a bob, the narrator engages more deeply with the emotional and psychological impact of social scrutiny on Bernice.
Related Themes:
