Flatland: Tone 1 key example

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
Tone
Explanation and Analysis:

The tone of Flatland changes significantly as the narrative progresses, as Abbot reflects the work's shifting focus and reveals more about A Square’s fate. Initially, the novel’s tone is dry, wry and academic, satirically pointing a critique at the rigidity and absurdity of Victorian society. Narrated in the first person by A Square, the early parts of the book use humor and irony to expose the follies and contradictions of Flatland life. Everything A Square describes seems arbitrary and almost silly, which then makes the reader realize how their own social mores might also seem that way. It's both entertaining and thought-provoking. A Square's perspective as a member of Flatland society provides an insider's view of its flaws. Even though his initial descriptions are more objective than his later ones, there’s still a consistent attitude of criticism in the narrative’s voice.