Question

What contrasting tones is the author conveying?

Answer 1

Answer:

somber and joyous

Explanation:

At first, a shadow falls on the world. Darkness takes place. Here the autor creates a feeling of somber. A heavy mood. Then a joyful one when "a shout of joy broke out in all directions". So those are two opposing or contrasting themes that the author uses in the excerpt.

Answer 2

I believe he is drawing a parallel between a tone of pure joy and the most depressing despair.