Language

The language of “Ray the Rottweiler” by Alice Jolly is simple and explicit. The choice of words reflects the local colour, with British English words and expressions, some of which are derogatory (offensive):

Better not to walk that way today, love.
Fuck off, I tell him. It’s a public right of way. (ll. 115-116)

When dialogue is employed (like in the above example), the author does not use dialogue marks. Furthermore, the author often chooses to convey what characters say through free indirect speech: “Well, you’ve seen the teeth on them, haven’t you? Buried her in the garden. Ever actually seen him? Nah. Only once at night, digging. Great big hole in the garden. Body shaped. Yeah.” (ll. 3-6)

Imagery

Alice Jolly uses descriptive words and phrases to create imagery that helps readers construct mental images of the characters and the setting.

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Symbols

Several elements play a symbolical role in the short story. Ray’s nickname “the Rottweiler” suggests that Ray is an aggressive man, but is also symbolic of his exaggerated care for the Rottweiler dogs he has.

The fence around Ray’s property symbolizes isolation and confinement.

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Moreover, here you can read about the similes and repetitions found in the text.