Final answer:
The tone of a narrative is the author's attitude toward the subject or audience, influenced by word choice and style. In literature, it can range from ironic to inquisitive, and it's important to consider the language used when determining tone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tone of a narrative can be understood as the author's attitude toward the subject matter or the audience, as expressed through the stylistic and rhetorical choices they make. When analyzing a piece of literature, it is essential to consider the language and word choice, as these elements are critical in shaping the tone and the overall mood of the story.
Using Stephen Crane's A Great Mistake as an example, if the highlighted passage is noted for a tone that is 'coolly detached' and perhaps 'ironic', we can infer that the narrator's tone may not be as straightforward as the options given (terse/disinterested, wonder/awe, suspenseful/foreboding). Instead, we might find tones of skepticism or critical reflection. Crane is known for his realistic and often stark depiction of life, and this might be reflected in a tone that engages the reader with a sense of objectivity or subtle critique.
In analyzing tone, one might also look at the questions posed within a narrative. Questions can often introduce a tone of inquisitiveness or reflection. Taking the example provided, where the speaker asks "-or was it the coldness?-", a tone of questioning or pondering is introduced. This might contribute to a more complex and nuanced tone than the options provided.