THE ROLE OF METAPHOR IN A LITERARY WORK: THE PRAGMATIC ASPECT (BASED ON FRANCIS SCOTT FITZGERALD’S SHORT STORY «THE RICH BOY»)

Abstract

The article examines the functioning of metaphor in literary discourse. The analysis of functions of metaphor is based on the classification proposed by Franklin Rudolf Ankersmit and Jan Johann Mooij. The aim of the article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the contextual and conceptual foundations of metaphors and the mechanisms through which they influence cognitive processes. A total of 89 metaphors were identified in the short story under analysis. The functional analysis of these metaphors revealed that 47 perform an emotive function, 35 a cognitive function, and 7 a persuasive function. Thus, all metaphors introduced by the author into the text exhibit a clear pragmatic orientation. The metaphors are examined in parallel with the analysis of the short story. In the storyunder consideration, they function not merely as devices of vivid artistic expression but as fundamental building blocks in the construction of the characters’ images. Through metaphors, the author reveals the protagonists’ character traits ( Anson Hunter’s boundless self-confidence, his desire to keep everything under control, including the people closest to him, and Dolly’s lack of psychological maturity, her constant tendency to pursue the unattainable). Metaphors are also used to represent the characters’ psychological states, particularly Anson’s state of mind in different situations and at various stages of his life. The metaphors that convey the characters’ psychological states perform an emotive function, expressing Anson’s conviction that he is right, his disappointment, and his desire to regain control of the situation. It is through metaphor that Anson’s outlook on life and the reasons behind his interference in the life of his Aunt Edna – which ultimately led to Cary Sloane’s death – are revealed. Wealth is conceptualized in the story as a destructive force, since it is wealth that gives Anson absolute confidence in his own judgment and in the belief that nothing and no one can ever slip beyond his control. Through metaphor, the author implicitly conveys the message that this very confidence prevented Anson from achieving happiness and caused him to lose those he loved. By means of cognitive metaphors, the author communicates a particular vision of the nature of wealth and its influence on the formation of personality. Metaphors establish logical connections and enable concise, memorable communication of information, thereby contributing to the formation of a particular worldview.