Dialogue – Speech varies: some is realistic and slangy, some is formal or legalistic (e.g. “Man, I ain’t scared of nothin’.” “The defendant is charged with first-degree murder and will be tried according to the law.”).

Figurative Language – Metaphors, symbolism, and imagery are frequent and subtle (e.g. The furnace in the Daltons’ house symbolizes both the industrial, wealthy world Bigger is excluded from and the destructive power of fear and violence in his life).

Tone & Style – Serious, intense, and descriptive, reflecting social and psychological themes..