Unfolding the Themes of Frost’s

Khalifa, Wegdan Rabea S.

doi:10.21608/ejlt.2024.331113.1088

Unfolding the Themes of Frost’s "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" from a Stylistic Functional Perspective

Document Type : Research in linguistic and literary studies

Author

Wegdan Rabea S. Khalifa

English Department, Faculty of Arts, Sohag University, Sohag

10.21608/ejlt.2024.331113.1088

Abstract

This study utilizes a linguistic analysis to delve into the intricacies of Frost's renowned poem "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Using a formal tone, this paper aims to unravel the layers of meaning embedded within Frost's words by examining the poem's grammatical choices such as modality, transitivity, cohesive and syntactic devices. By adopting this analytical approach, the study uncovers the poem's underlying patterns and structures, shedding light on the intricate interplay between language, meaning, and function. The analysis begins by scrutinizing the grammatical choices employed by Frost in the poem. The author's use of simple and repetitive syntax is highlighted. Transitivity patterns are tackled to highlight the themes prevailing in the poem. These grammatical choices not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the poem but also serve a functional purpose in conveying the speaker's mindset and emotions. The paper also explores the cohesive devices employed by Frost to unify the poem's individual lines and stanzas. Frost's careful use of pronouns, conjunctions, and reference fosters the theme of timelessness, serenity and tranquility prevailing the poem. The methodology is descriptive-qualitative. The analysis and findings show that Frost's deliberate grammatical and lexical choices contribute not only to the poem's aesthetic appeal but also to its ability to convey the speaker's emotions, conflict, and inner turmoil.

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