Language

Style of writing

The language used by Miguel Syjuco in the short story is very descriptive and detailed, as the story presents what the main character is doing and seeing. For example, the story begins with a lengthy depiction of his new kitchen:

A microwave with unblistered buttons and walls still spatterless. The fridge unburdened, free of the-steeped-scents and mysterious residue of condiments collected in the ridges of the shelves. Swing open its door and it's as if the bulb was always on, like a welcoming porch light.... (ll. 3-7) 

This places the character in the setting in a very visual manner. At the same time, it introduces readers to the narrator’s perspective.

Another important aspect about the language is that dialogue is not explicitly marked, although the narrator conveys what the other character is saying: “Where are you? she says.” (l. 183). The story also includes very little dialogue, which emphasises the idea that the story is focused only on the narrator and his perspective.

Choice of words

In the beginning of the story, there are a few positive meaning words such as: “unblistered buttons” (l. 3), “free of the-steeped-scents and mysterious residue” (l.4), “welcoming porch light” (l. 6), etc. However, the narrator mostly uses a...