Analysis of Lexico-Semantic Devices in the Short Story

The Optimist by Bina Shah

Abstract

This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of the lexico-semantic devices employed in Bina Shah's short story, The Optimist. The current study utilizes a qualitative research method and applies Leech and Short's model to analyze the lexico-semantic devices present in the text. The findings of the study indicate the abundant use of lexico-semantic devices in the story, including metaphor, personification, hyperbole, oxymoron, paradox, and imagery. The use of lexico-semantic devices provides insight into how Bina Shah creates her prose to evoke emotions and craft themes, enrich the story's language, deepen characterization, and convey complex ideas more effectively. Through adept use of lexico-semantic devices, Shah effectively explores major themes such as optimism, gender inequality, and the dominance of male-centric societal norms, while developing robust characters like Adnan and Rahila to weave a compelling narrative.

Key Terms:  Lexico-semantic Devices, Short Story, The Optimist