O’Brien writes in a connotative simple style. His use of sensuous and colloquial language achieves his purpose of informing readers about life at war. “Cringed” and “sobbed” connote a call for desperation by the men at war as they both imply misery. Simple language like “begged for the noise to stop,” allows readers of any education level to comprehend O’Brien’s dialogue. As the men “light cigarettes” or squint into the “oppressive sunlight,” readers easily create a mental image through O’Brien’s sense provoking words. Colloquial language used by O’Brien prevents any misunderstandings in his means, consenting anyone to comprehend “stupid promises.” The dialogue portrays conversations between the men during the short stories. The dialogue also
