1. Unreliable Narrator: The story is told from the perspective of Billy Weaver, a young, naive, and somewhat oblivious man. This unreliable narration shapes our understanding of the events, as we are privy only to Billy's limited observations and interpretations. This creates a sense of ambiguity and allows for the reader to question what is actually happening.
2. Foreshadowing: The story is filled with subtle hints that foreshadow the unsettling nature of the landlady. Examples include:
* The landlady's unusual interest in Billy's age.
* The lack of other guests at the boarding house.
* The odd smell of bitter almonds.
* The stuffed animals in the sitting room.
3. Symbolism: The stuffed animals symbolize the landlady's sinister nature and her desire to preserve things in a frozen, unchanging state. They also hint at the fate of the previous guests.
4. Irony: The story employs irony, particularly situational irony, where events contradict the reader's expectations. For instance, the landlady's welcoming and charming demeanor belies her sinister intentions.
5. Gothic elements: The story incorporates elements of the gothic genre, such as:
* The isolated and eerie setting of the boarding house.
* The ominous and suspenseful atmosphere.
* The supernatural undertones and hints of violence.
6. Suspense: Dahl builds suspense gradually by creating a sense of unease and tension. He uses short, sharp sentences, vivid descriptions, and carefully paced events to keep the reader on edge.
7. Juxtaposition: The story juxtaposes the landlady's seemingly harmless demeanor with the chilling reality of her actions. This contrast further enhances the sense of unease and creates a disturbing sense of duality.
8. Tone: The tone of the story is unsettling and disturbing. Dahl uses evocative language and imagery to create a sense of dread and foreboding.
By utilizing these techniques, Dahl masterfully crafts a chilling and unforgettable story that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.