The technique of writing that helps to place a piece in a specific time period, setting, socio-economic level, or purpose is indeed diction.
Diction refers to the choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing. It can reflect cultural, geographical, and social aspects of the time and the environment in which a story is set. Different types of diction can convey different levels of formality, professionalism, and cultural or historical context, helping to define the characters, setting, and overall atmosphere of the work.
Why You Were Wrong
If you selected tone instead of diction, it’s important to understand that while tone refers to the author’s attitude toward the subject matter (e.g., serious, humorous, sarcastic), diction is more about the specific words and phrases chosen and how they contribute to the portrayal of time, setting, or socio-economic status.
Example
Consider the following excerpts:
- Diction Example:
- Formal Diction: "The vestiges of poverty lingered in the once-thriving alleyways, where the echoes of laughter had long since faded."
- Colloquial Diction: "The old street still felt broke, like laughter had packed up and left ages ago."
In the formal diction example, the choice of words like "vestiges," "poverty," and "thriving" creates a sense of a past time period and a socio-economic context. In contrast, the colloquial diction uses simpler language and could suggest a more contemporary or casual setting.
Summary
Thus, even though tone is important for conveying sentiment and mood, it is diction that more directly informs the reader about the specific time period, setting, and socio-economic level inherent in a piece of writing.