Final answer:
The mode of descent in literature refers to the way a story is narrated or the perspective from which it is told. It can influence the reader's understanding of the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
In literature, the mode of descent refers to the way in which a story is narrated or the perspective from which it is told. It can be important in a story because it can shape the reader's understanding of the events, characters, and themes. For example, a first-person mode of descent may provide a more personal and subjective view of the story, while a third-person omniscient mode of descent may offer a broader and more objective perspective.