A Stylistic Analysis of Metaphorical Expressions in Non-Fictional Texts: A Study of Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power

Abstract

The use of metaphors is a powerful stylistic tool that authors often employ to convey complex ideas and emotions. This paper presents a stylistic analysis of metaphors in Robert Greene's influential book, The 48 Laws of Power, showing how metaphorical expressions contribute to the book’s stylistic impact. The study unravels the intricate process behind the creation, interpretation, and conceptualisation of metaphor in language use. It examines the stylistic choices made by the author in utilizing metaphors in the book, the type of metaphors used, and how the options are tailored to appeal to the readers’ emotions and align with the book's central themes. Data were collected from the in-depth reading of the text and purposefully noting areas of stylistic interest to the study. The data collected were analysed qualitatively, using the descriptive approach. The linguistic levels analysis of Crystal and Davy (1969) that recommends that a particular text be discussed in terms of several interrelated levels of description and the Systemic Functional Linguistics (SLF) theory of Halliday were used for data analysis and application. The study's findings reveal metaphors, are often used as powerful persuasive tools, which play a significant role in non-fictional books. Again, it shows that metaphors are not just persuasive tools or linguistic devices but also a cognitive process that shapes understanding of the world. And that metaphor helps readers internalise the messages communicated in both fictional and nonfictional books. The study concludes that metaphors are a universal language that effectively communicates concepts, unlocks hidden meaning within the text, bridges between concrete and abstract, paints vivid mental images and simplifies complex ideas.