What is the setting of “The Sniper”?

"The Sniper" is set in Dublin, Ireland, during the Irish Civil War, which lasted from 1922 to 1923. The story takes place over the course of a single night, which is significant as it highlights the sudden and brutal nature of the conflict. The setting is also important in terms of the story's themes of war, violence, and the human cost of conflict. The action takes place in the city center, with the majority of the story taking place on a rooftop that provides a strategic vantage point for the sniper. The city is described as being in ruins, with the streets deserted and the buildings in disrepair.

The setting of the rooftop is particularly significant, as it serves as a microcosm of the wider conflict. The sniper is isolated and vulnerable, and must rely on his own skill and cunning to survive. At the same time, he is in a position of power, with the ability to take out his enemies from a distance. The darkness of the night adds to the tense atmosphere of the story, highlighting the danger and uncertainty of war. O'Flaherty's descriptions of the city at night are vivid and evocative, immersing the reader in the story and providing a sense of the chaos and confusion of the conflict. Overall, the setting of "The Sniper" is crucial to the story's themes and tone, and plays a significant role in creating a vivid and memorable reading experience.