comment on language / style

The language of the novel is very informal. Between Mateo and Rufus, the language of the characters change to reflect their personalities. While Mateo’s language comes across as worrisome and timid, Rufus’ language is much tougher. His use of slang also serves to highlight his personality and situation, living in a foster home in a tough area of Manhattan. Although using phrases such as “and we out” most explicitly serves to characterize Rufus’ background, it also mirrors his tougher attitude toward death (24). Unlike Mateo, Rufus is much more accepting of his End Day, and this is reflected in his nonchalant language. While Mateo’s dialogue is littered with “what ifs,” Rufus appears much more certain and decisive, suggesting that he is “someone who’s accepted dying” (79). Thus, the dialogue of Mateo and Rufus serve to reflect not only their personalities but also their attitude toward their End Day.