1. The Sniper's Appearance: Flaherty describes the sniper's physical attributes, including his hair color and skin tone, drawing a clear picture of the protagonist's appearance. This adds depth to the characterization.
2. Rooftop Location: The story takes place on a rooftop, with the sniper strategically positioning himself to gain a vantage point over the city. The precise location contributes to the suspense and heightened tension throughout the narrative.
3. Details of the Enemy: The sniper's opponents, known as "the enemy," are meticulously depicted, including their uniforms and movements. These details further immerse the reader in the conflict and help create a palpable atmosphere of danger.
4. Time Setting: The story unfolds during "twilight," adding an element of obscurity to the sniper's actions. The specific time setting intensifies the sense of urgency and heightens the reader's engagement.
5. Sensory Elements: Flaherty incorporates vivid descriptions involving the senses. The sniper's enhanced hearing allows him to identify specific sounds, such as the "soft thud" of a bullet hitting a wall, enhancing the sensory experience.
6. Emotional Complexity: The sniper undergoes complex emotions throughout the story, and his inner thoughts are revealed. This emotional depth adds layers to the character, humanizing him and connecting the reader to his experience.
7. Use of Slang: The story incorporates period slang, such as "the long fellow," adding authenticity and capturing the essence of the era and location where the story is set.
8. Weapon Focus: The sniper's weapon, a rifle, is described in detail, including the type of bullets used. These intricate details contribute to the story's realism and grounding in reality.
9. Bullet Marks: Flaherty paints a picture of the sniper's environment, filled with bullet marks on walls and windows, conveying the intensity and pervasiveness of the conflict.
10. Weather Conditions: The story mentions drizzling rain, adding an atmospheric touch that amplifies the sniper's discomfort and the challenging circumstances he faces.
These specific details effectively transport the reader into the story's world, fostering a sense of immediacy and heightened engagement with the events and characters within The Sniper.