Tone
The Souls of Black Folk
by W.E.B. Du Bois

The Souls of Black Folk: 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
Chapter 4: Of the Meaning of Progress
Explanation and Analysis:

Du Bois's tone, though generally respectful and informative throughout The Souls of Black Folk, provides some insight into how he views his fellow Black Americans—particularly those less educated than himself. While demanding that Black people in America be afforded important educational opportunities, he simultaneously reveals through tone that he looks down on those less educated than himself, despite understanding the reasons for such widespread Black illiteracy.