Robinson Crusoe

by Daniel Defoe

Robinson Crusoe: 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:

In line with the novel's literary realism and Defoe's journalistic style, the tone for the most part remains open, honest, and direct. During the book's exposition, the speaker's tone is reminiscent of that of an old man shaking his head over the foolish decisions of a young man who consistently obeys "fancy rather than reason." With the benefit of hindsight, Robinson does not simply recount the events of the story but inserts his own commentary on moments in which he made poor decisions, as well as moments in which he is impressed with his former self's strength or contrivance.