* Tone is a writer's choice: The tone is the overall feeling or attitude the author conveys through their writing. It's a conscious choice the author makes, not simply a reflection of the speakers' personalities.
* Speakers can contribute to tone: The way speakers talk, their word choices, and their overall demeanor can definitely contribute to the story's tone. For example:
* A character who uses a lot of sarcasm will contribute to a humorous or cynical tone.
* A character who speaks in a very formal and polite manner might create a more serious or even ironic tone.
* Tone is not always about the speakers: Even if the speakers are all very serious and somber, the author could still choose to write the story in a lighthearted or humorous tone.
Think of it this way:
* Speakers are like ingredients in a recipe. They bring their own flavor and texture.
* The author is the chef. They use those ingredients to create the overall taste and atmosphere of the dish (the story).
Let me know if you have any more questions about tone or story writing!