In literary works, atmosphere refers to emotions or feelings an author conveys to his readers through description of objects and settings, such as in J. K. Rowling ’s Harry Potter tales, in which she spins a whimsical and enthralling atmosphere.

Tone is another literary technique that establishes atmosphere. For example, the witty, often wry tone of the narration in Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s Good Omens supports the book’s humorous and lighthearted atmosphere. A dark tone, like in Frankenstein, can suggest terror, desolation, tension, or suspense.