In what way does mood primarily affect a reader?

The effect of mood on a reader is fundamentally tied to the emotional response that the text invokes. Mood is created through various literary elements, including word choice, setting, tone, and imagery. When a particular mood is established in a narrative or poem, it influences how readers feel while engaging with the story. For instance, a gloomy mood may evoke feelings of sadness or tension, while a lively mood might generate excitement or joy. This emotional engagement can deepen the reader’s connection to the characters and events unfolding in the text, impacting their overall understanding and experience.

In contrast, the other options focus on structural or informational aspects of a text. While mood does not determine the structure or outline a timeline, it plays a significant role in shaping the emotional landscape that readers navigate as they process what they read. Hence, the correct choice highlights mood's influence on emotion, which is central to the reader's experience.