What is the author's tone in the memoir, Guantánamo Diary?

As Siems notes, English is Slahi’s fourth language. By writing in English, Slahi is able to directly express himself to his readership, without the mediation of a translator. By writing in English, though, with an expansive vocabulary and frequent use of classic literary devices, Slahi is able to impress upon the reader his intellect. However, Slahi himself reminds the reader that he learned English from his guards and interrogators, not all of whom practice proper grammar. At times, he chooses to use an adjective or word that an American might not, but this contributes to the authenticity of the text.

Slahi chooses examples and employs phrases that target this work to an American audience. Slahi frequently references elements of American history, for example, such as a quote by Benjamin Franklin or a reference to the slave trade. He also employs American colloquialisms in dialogue. These elements indicate an understanding of American culture, and a desire for this memoir to have meaning for the average American citizen.

Slahi is also careful to avoid inflammatory language or pointing the finger of blame. He makes frequent use of “I statements” to describe how various situations or interactions make him feel, both emotionally and physically. As a result, the work does not read as a vengeful treatise, but rather as a measured and reasoned critique.

Slahi also directly speaks to his reader in pointed sentences addressed “Dear Reader.” These sentences interrupt the narrative feel of the memoir, as they may be placed after dialogue or in the midst of Slahi’s personal analysis of the situation at hand. In this way, he calls the reader to be active in their reading, rather than a passive consumer of Slahi’s words.