Final answer:
The negative tone toward banks and companies in the excerpt is created by the word 'creatures' which dehumanizes them and emphasizes their pursuit of profit.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word or phrase that most creates a negative tone toward banks and companies in the given excerpt from The Grapes of Wrath is creatures. This word is used to dehumanize banks and companies, implying that they are soulless entities driven solely by profit. By referring to them as creatures, the author evokes a negative image and emphasizes the lack of humanity in their actions.
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