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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 Donna Tartt’s The Goldfinch is partially psychological and contemplative. Told in first-person retrospective, Theodore Decker narrates the story from an adult perspective, reflecting on his traumatic teenage years with a newfound maturity and emotional awareness. Theo’s drug-induced dreams and anxiety-fueled decisions become an integral ingredient in the narrative, allowing the reader to take part in analyzing Theo’s behavior.
The story’s retrospective style also builds an introspective and confessional tone. Now aware of his wrongdoings and unhealthy coping mechanisms, Theo in the present is more willing to view his past self critically and make healthier, more tangible goals for the future. However, this awareness and these positive actions only become apparent towards the end of the story. Throughout most of The Goldfinch, Theo looks inward at his pain and grief, reliving the darkest years of his past.
At the same time, it must also be noted that Tartt’s novel is occasionally laced with sardonic undertones and dark humor. After all, Theo is just a young boy when tragedy strikes, and sometimes the best remedy for grief is unfiltered fun. The irony lies in the fact that Theo’s forms of fun—drugs, alcohol, and crime—become his greatest downfall in the end.
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