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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 “The Interlopers” is dark and removed. Throughout much of the story, the tone does not change, and the remoteness of the perspective creates tension and provides clarity on the foolishness of the main characters. To that end, the third-person perspective and omniscience of the narrator makes the violence in the story seem unavoidable. Through description, plot, and dialogue, the narrator outlines the violent series of events without tempering them or attempting to expand on their meaning.
A removed narrator can create tension while also focusing on future conflict. The somewhat dark perspective on human nature continues throughout the story and is exacerbated by the narration and description of the rising action. There is a momentary shift toward reconciliation when the two men attempt to resolve their conflict. The mistakes of their past might be cleared away, and a peaceful future seems possible. However, this moment of hope is brief, and the terror of the ending offsets any potential reclamation. However, the narrator’s tone doesn’t explicitly pass judgment on Ulrich and Georg, instead relaying their grievances and mistakes with a level of clarity that neither of the men have. The narrator’s omniscience therefore subtly alludes to the story’s broader ideas about rivalry and greed without stating them outright.
Related Themes:
