Dupler has published numerous essays and has taught college English. In this essay, Dupler examines Saki's use of literary device and its impact on the story's effectiveness.

Saki was a master of the literary device. Devices are subtle "tricks" that authors employ to make stories interesting, to move plots along, and to keep readers absorbed. The short story form, with its need to entice readers quickly from beginning to end, lends itself well to the use of literary device. Unlikely events, suddenly twisting plots, and trick endings are devices that allow short stories to pack excitement in small spaces. Saki's story "The Interlopers" has several prime examples of the literary trick in action; in fact, the story relies on literary device for its effectiveness. However, despite the efficiency and excitement in his storytelling, Saki's reliance on literary trickery in "The Interlopers" ultimately detracts from the depth of...