Question

Which word best describes the tone of these lines written by Thomas Hardy?

1) optimistic
2) serious
3) humorous
4) skeptical

Answer 1

The word that best describes the tone of the lines written by Thomas Hardy is skeptical.

Step-by-step explanation:

The word that best describes the tone of the lines written by Thomas Hardy is skeptical. In the first stanza of Hardy's "Neutral Tones," the speaker's tone is serious and reflective. As we continue through the poem, the speaker's tone becomes inquisitive as he asks questions like "or was the sight a deception?" These elements contribute to an overall skeptical tone.