Final answer:
The sentence in question serves to show dialogue and character interaction within a narrative, revealing Al's frustration and his commanding tone while speaking to Mae.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of the sentence "Al said snarlingly, 'God dang it, Mae. Give ‘em the loaf." is primarily to convey dialogue and action, illustrating the character Al's frustration and command to Mae using a specific tone. Elements such as the adverb 'snarlingly' provide insight into Al's emotions, setting a harsh and commanding atmosphere, thereby enhancing the reader's understanding of Al's character and the dynamics between him and Mae.
This occurs within a narrative, where the role of dialogue is to advance the plot, reveal character traits, and provide context for the characters’ interactions and motivations. Literature often uses dialogue as a powerful tool to show rather than tell, offering a glimpse into the characters' relationships and the story's emotional landscape without relying solely on narration.