Language

Style of writing

The language in the novel excerpt “Tuesday” by Bret Easton Ellis is mostly informal. The text uses contractions for both the narrative and the dialogue and informal phrases such as “just for the hell of it”. The language is mostly factual and there is no use of figurative language in the text. 

The use of slurs and swearwords highlights Patrick Bateman’s way of thinking and speaking. Some examples include “couple of skinny faggots”, “you crazy fucking nigger” and “what a fucking loser you are”. He also calls women “babes”, which is objectifying them. This gives insight into his character and shows that he has no respect for other people, and likely thinks of himself as superior. 

Symbols

After Patrick tells Courtney that he has to leave, he mentions t...