A CRITICAL PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS OF INVECTIVES IN “THE ART OF LETTING GO”

Abstract

Language is generally seen as a medium or tool of communication between two or more people. It is used in diverse communicative contexts. However, when language is used to lampoon, antagonize, reproach, insult or ridicule oneself, it is seen as an invective. Therefore, invective is described as the critical, perfect and insulting manner of casting aspersion on a person in euphemistic manner. This study, through Critical Pragmatic Analysis, investigates invectives used in “The Art of Letting Go” by Roseline, as she extols hopelessness and total succumb to the reality of the moment. Specifically, this study focuses on Speech Act analysis of the message. The theory of the Pragmatic Act introduced by Jacob Mey (2001) and J. L. Austin (1962) is used as the theoretical foundation of the study. The data for the study is arrived at, through internet search. The passage for the analysis was selected based on the complex and diverse narratives, which categorically illustrate the hopelessness of the writer, and perhaps, her definitive decision to stand firm. Findings from the analysis indicate that the writer used a variety of speech acts, such as assertions, declarations, expressive utterances and commissives, to highlight her mood from the point of hopelessness to a definitive decision. In light of the above, the analysis reveals the depth of meaning and feelings of the writer, in her quest to admonish herself and, also encourage the reader on how language can be effectively used to effect a change of actions.