Theme and Tone➔ Gwenivere Moore➔ Kennedi Poland➔ B. Joseph McLaughlin

Definition

Theme: The central idea of a work.

Tone: The emotion or attitude behind the writing.

Classification

Both are narrative devices, as they show the narrator’s thoughts and feelings.

Examples in literature

Theme: In J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, one overarching theme is coming-of-age. This is apparent in Holden’s discomfort concerning adulthood and simultaneous desire to be more “grown up.”

Examples in Literature Cont.

Tone: J.D salinger also uses a very cynical and judgemental tone throughout the novel because Holden is very critical of the actions of adults in his life. He also has negative views about adulthood itself.