Final answer:
The mood in a short story is usually created through the author's style, including tone, and the setting.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a short story, the mood is usually created or communicated through various literary elements. One of the main factors is the author's style, including their use of vocabulary, imagery, and tone. The tone of the story, which can be ironic, humorous, cold, or dramatic, contributes to the overall mood. Additionally, the setting plays a crucial role in establishing the mood. For example, a dark and oppressive setting may evoke feelings of confinement and depression.