Tenor

For the meaning and tone of this interesting word, see for example, Cambridge dictionary on line. One of its definitions is "the general meaning, character, or pattern of something", with the example What was the general tenor of his speech? Another is "the character or usual pattern of something," for example Suddenly the tenor of the meeting changed, and people started insulting each other.

"tenor" as a warning bell

It is easier to make a general claim about a written or spoken passage of text than it is to justify it by reference to specific observations. Thus we frequently come across critiques of text as "sarcastic", "frivolous", "inaccurate", "embarrassing" etc which are disguised expressions of a contrary opinion, or distaste — not justifiable analysis of the text.

If there is something that we really want a piece of text to say, when the writer is not saying it, or even actively avoiding it, we can be tempted to talk about the text's "general drift" or make claims about its "direction" or "emphasis". Tenor has a similar meaning; but being more formal in tone, it can be more impressive and convincing.