How does Stone use diction on the novel, Dear Martin?

One important aspect of authentic linguistic representation is the characters' awareness of language. Justyce in particular engages in code-switching, the practice of altering his language register depending on the context of the conversation. Language is an important aspect of identity, and subtle shifts in diction are interpreted as declarations of allegiance. For example, when Trey and Black Jihad confront Justyce, Manny, Jared, and their friends at the Halloween party, Justyce tries to defend the stereotype costumes: "Trey, he didn't mean anything by it, dawg. We were doing this satire thing with stereotypes, and it went too far. Lesson learned" (43). Justyce tries to be conciliatory by using familiar language: he calls Trey "dawg," a common epithet among the young men of his neighbourhood; he speaks in short sentences; and he reduces the impact of the higher-register word by calling it "this satire thing." However, these efforts are not enough. Trey sneers at Justyce and comments that he is "still Mr. Smarty-Pants" (43). Justyce's efforts to lower his linguistic register did not go far enough, and Trey took his language choices as evidence Justyce thinks he is superior. These subtle shifts and cues continue throughout the novel.