Language

Style of language

The short story “The New Girl” by Marc Mitchell is written using simple language and a mostly informal style. The story combines narrative and descriptive passages with dialogue. While narrative passages are more formal, the dialogue features informal, slang language. In particular, the dialogue features an offensive term for African Americans: “ ‘Get out of here, nigger’…” (p. 22, l. 25). In this way, the author uses language to suggest character traits, such as Allison’s rudeness and racism. It also adds realism to the characters’ voices, as well as an element of shock that such a young child would say such an offensive word.

Descriptive and narrative passages reveal that the choice of words is symbolical and helps set the mood of the story: “hot, bright day” (p. 21, l. 1), : “soggy grass” (p. 21, l. 4), “whirling water” (p. 21, l. 4), “simple and sturdy design” (p. 22, ll. 16-17), “hot eyes” (p. 23, l. 7), “rose-colored curtains” (p. 23, l. 9). These depictions help suggest tension, conflict, and an overwhelming atmosphere. 

Similes and metaphors

Sim...