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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 Remains of the Day is often tonally formal because of Stevens's peculiar way of speaking, but the first person narration also lends an intimacy to the story. Stevens's personality and professionalism clash humorously with many of the events he describes as he drives along the English countryside. There's also a subdued humor in his interactions with others: for instance, characters like the retired "batman" are amused by Stevens's lack of knowledge about cars, although Stevens himself doesn't seem to realize this. He often delves into philosophical or conceptual questions, such as the meaning of "dignity" both for butlers and in a larger sense, and as a result the tone is also often contemplative. Additionally, Stevens's quiet life and slow journey through the countryside lend the novel a calm tone, as do the peaceful English landscapes he describes as he travels.
However, a reader would be remiss not to also notice that a darker or more serious tone pervades the novel at times. This tone is suitable for a novel that deals with World War II and the rise of fascism, but it's also fitting for the regrets Stevens expresses. A sad, sentimental tone is especially obvious when Stevens relates his memories and missed opportunities to connect with others: his father and Miss Kenton are the most obvious examples. Stevens isn't often emotional. As a result, when he does express emotion, as in the last chapter of the novel, the serious, forlorn tone is greatly heightened. Readers might also call the novel's tone restrained because of Stevens's unwillingness to discuss his emotions regarding certain events. Some readers might feel that Stevens is hiding his true feelings or hopes from them.
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