What term describes the attitude towards the subject or audience in a piece of writing?

The term that describes the attitude towards the subject or audience in a piece of writing is "tone." Tone reflects how the writer feels about the subject matter and conveys that attitude through word choice, sentence structure, and overall writing style. It can range from formal to informal, serious to humorous, and can evoke different emotions in the reader. Essentially, tone helps to set the emotional backdrop for the piece and influences how the audience interprets the message.

For instance, a sarcastic tone can imply a sense of irony or mockery, while a sympathetic tone can create a connection between the writer and the audience, eliciting feelings of empathy. Understanding tone is crucial for both writers and readers, as it significantly shapes the overall impact of a text.