What does the term "mood" refer to in writing?

The term "mood" in writing refers to the emotional atmosphere that permeates a piece of literature. It is the feeling or sensation that a work evokes in the reader, created through the author's choice of words, imagery, and overall setting. When a piece of writing successfully establishes a mood, it can elicit specific emotional responses, such as joy, sadness, fear, or nostalgia. For instance, a dark, stormy setting might create a mood of suspense or foreboding, while a warm, sunny day could evoke feelings of happiness and peace.

The emotional atmosphere can be distinct from the character's emotional state, which is more about individual experiences in particular scenes, and from the overall theme of the work, which encompasses the central ideas or messages conveyed. Similarly, the author's tone refers to their attitude toward the subject matter or the audience, which may influence the mood but is not the same thing. Hence, recognizing mood helps readers engage more deeply with the text by connecting emotionally with the narrative.