Final answer:
The author's diction directly influences the tone of a narrative, with choices such as "dismal" and "grievous" creating a gloomy atmosphere, while words like "glimmered" and "smiled" evoke a cheerful setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's diction plays a vital role in conveying the tone of a narrative effectively. When an author selects specific words, they are choosing tools that evoke particular emotions or atmospheres. Words like "dismal" and "grievous" immediately suggest a sad or gloomy tone, putting the reader in a specific emotional frame. Conversely, words such as "glimmered" and "smiled" are associated with positivity, signaling a cheerful tone. Similarly, words like "whispers" and "scandal" often hint at secrecy or deceit, implying a suspicious tone. Lastly, words such as "beloved" and "innocent" generally have positive connotations and can communicate an optimistic tone. The nuanced use of diction is a deliberate choice by the author to shape the reader's experience and to color the narrative with the intended emotional and psychological hues.