Here's how:
* Informal Language: Soto employs everyday, informal language and slang that reflects the speech patterns of the characters, particularly the father. This includes phrases like "You know what I mean?", "That's right", and "Get your mind out of the gutter."
* Regionalisms: Some words and phrases are specific to the region where the story is set, likely California.
* Sentence Structure: Soto uses simple, direct sentences that mirror how people actually speak, rather than more formal writing.
Overall: The dialect used in "The Talk" helps to create a sense of realism and authenticity in the characters and their interactions. It also allows Soto to capture the cultural context of the story, particularly the father's working-class background.