Pragmatic Analysis of Frances Tower's, the Little Willow

Abstract

A British writer Frances Tower (1885–1948) is known for her short stories. She often explored themes of relationships, human sentiments, social conventions and the inner lives of her characters. The Little Willow by Tower explores themes of vulnerability, strength and the complexities of human sentiments through precise and refined prose. Pragmatic analysis investigates how context influences meaning in communication by paying attention to speaker intent, implications and interpretations beyond literal language. Speech act theory was developed by John Searle. The study reveals how Tower skillfully manipulates locutionary, illocutionary, and perlocutionary acts to create tension and emotional resonance. Using Speech Act Theory and pragmatic principles this study examine how language shapes social identities and sentimental connections within the story. The Little Willow is analysed through the lens of pragmatics with particular attention to Speech Act Theory highlighting the nuanced interplay of language and meaning within the story.  Pragmatic analysis sheds light on the ways how Tower employs linguistic strategies such as implicature, presupposition and contextual nuances to convey hidden emotional layers e.g Simon’s conversational techniques  often involve indirect speech acts that simultaneously reveal and obscure his true intentions leaving Lisby and the readers to interpret his words beyond their surface meaning. Lisby’s hesitant responses reflect the tension between her inner turmoil and her desire for connection capturing the fragility of human bonds burdened by the weight of unspoken desires. This study delves into the role of speech acts in defining social identities and relationships in the story. By examining dialogues and interactions between the main characters the study contributes to a broader understanding of how literary texts use language to foster comprehension and engage readers in understanding hidden feelings and cultural limitations.