Synge's play is known for its use of this specific dialect, which is characterized by its poetic and lyrical qualities, and its use of archaic words and phrases. It is also notable for its musicality and the way it captures the rhythms and cadence of everyday speech in the Aran Islands.
The use of Irish English in "Riders to the Sea" was a deliberate choice by Synge, who wanted to authentically represent the lives and voices of the Irish people, particularly those living in rural areas. His play was controversial at the time of its premiere, as some critics felt that it was too "local" and inaccessible to a wider audience. However, it has since come to be recognized as a masterpiece of Irish drama, and its use of Irish English has been praised for its beauty and power.