POV vs. Tone vs. Messaging in Writing

Plus, POV examples from literature

Tone, Messaging, & Perspectives

Tone

The “tone” or “voice” of your story or book refers to the actual technical style of writing. Is it strict and formal, is it conversational and informal, a stream of consciousness, or is it more of a factual reporter’s tone or a fable/story? There are so many ways to tell a story!

The tone of a piece is directly related to who the audience is. You want to write TO your audience in a way and style they’ll understand — which is the tone you need for that piece.

Message

The “message” of your piece or book refers to the overall point you are trying to convey to your readers. This can be a specific point or an overarching theme, but it means what you want your readers to walk away with having learned or discovered.

This is something you need to determine at the beginning of the writing process, as it affects the entire piece you’re writing. You must be clear on the message in order to convey it effectively.

POV/Perspective

Then, there is the “point of view” or “perspective” of your book/work. The point of view is the language used to speak to the audience or readers. It is HOW you speak/write and also WHO you’re speaking to/about.