What is the importance of language in the novel, The Coldest City?

One way in which the language of this novel is important is the emphasis on British terms, slang and spy jargon. Since this novel takes place in Berlin and England, it makes sense that British references would be made in the writing. For instance, when Waddel talks about the runner having taken the list to Russia he indicates he would have done it quickly by using the reference to the board game Monopoly “do not pass go, do not collect two hundred pounds” (16). In this instance instead of using the American “dollars” the British term “pound” is employed. Another uniquely British term is the frequent use of the word “bloody” as a curse word. For instance Waddel describes Perceval as being “A right royal pain in the arse. And a bloody good spy” (19). The term “arse” (19) is used often, a British for “ass.”

Spy jargon and slang is also used to make the reader feel as if he is in the crux of the story. All the agents have codenames. These include: H/BER, BER-I, SPYGLASS and STACHEL. The term “the package” is used to describe whatever the focus of an agent’s job is whether that package is a person or an item. Additionally, characters are given cover names and stories to keep their real identities from being revealed. Perceval in particular uses a good deal of slang in his speech. For instance, he refers to the Germans as “Jerry” (23) and the Frenchman Lasalle as “the Frog” (52).