RATIONALE
In everyday and professional settings, individuals utilize utterances and sentences to convey their thoughts effectively To enhance communication, people often draw comparisons or contrasts using objects or figures that resemble their spoken expressions, thereby establishing reliability and validity The use of stylistic devices plays a significant role in enriching communication.
Stylistics, a branch of applied linguistics, examines the style in texts, particularly in literature, by analyzing figures, tropes, and rhetorical devices that add variety and distinctness to writing As noted by Katie Wales in the Dictionary of Stylistics, the primary aim of stylistics is to reveal the functional significance of these formal features for text interpretation, linking literary effects to their linguistic causes Consequently, stylistic devices play a crucial role in the success of literary works, as authors craft their narratives with appropriate plots that resonate within their specific contexts.
In 1925, F Scott Fitzgerald published "The Great Gatsby," a novel that critiques the pursuit of wealth, deception, and societal vices such as alcoholism, while highlighting the stark contrast between reality and dreams Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1920s, the story captures the era's significant changes, including increased immigration, evolving roles for women, and extreme income inequality.
The Great Gatsby, as noted by Hoover (2013), critiques the American Dream, symbolized by the green light on Daisy's dock during the Roaring '20s, and its initial failure in 1925 has transformed into enduring success This novel's appeal lies not only in its engaging plot that reveals the irony of contemporary society but also in its rich stylistic devices that vividly portray social realities Translated into numerous languages, including Vietnamese, The Great Gatsby continues to captivate readers globally.
This article aims to analyze the use of stylistic devices in a novel read in both English and Vietnamese, highlighting their unique features The insights gained from this exploration are anticipated to enhance cross-cultural language learning and teaching practices.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Aims
The study aims at exploring stylistic devices used in the literature work “The Great Gatsby “and their Vietnamese translation.
Objectives
More specifically, the objectives of the study are:
To identify and describe stylistic devices used in the novels
To explore how stylistic devices are realized in the Vietnamese version.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
To fulfill the objectives mentioned above, the study is implemented to answer the following questions
1.3.1 What are features and the functions of the stylistic devices used in “The Great Gatsby”?
1.3.2 How are the stylistic devices used in “The Great Gatsby” translated in the Vietnamese version – Gatsby Vĩ Đại?
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This research is restricted to Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald ‘s work - The Great Gatsby and its Vietnamese version published in 2014 by the translator Hoang Cuong
This article explores the characteristics of various stylistic devices, such as alliteration, metaphor, metonymy, repetition, and personification It examines the similarities and differences in the application of these devices in both Vietnamese and English texts, highlighting their unique features and effects in each language.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This research aims to enhance the teaching and learning of language among Vietnamese learners by deepening their appreciation for the beauty of literary language and the translation methods of stylistic devices Furthermore, it seeks to improve their written language skills, particularly in relation to stylistic features.
ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY
The study is presented in the following parts:
The introduction chapter introduces background and rationale of this study, and summarizes research questions and outline of this paper
Chapter 2: Literature Review and Theoretical Background
Chapter 2 is theoretical background which clarifies some important concepts in the study In this chapter, some of the previous researches on stylistic devices were presented
Methodology of this study is introduced in chapter 3, which describes data collection and data analysis in detail
Chapter 4 focuses on the results and discussion In this chapter, answers to research questions raised in the Introduction section are provided though quantitative analysis
Conclusions are drawn to general findings of this study, limitations of this study stated and suggestions put forward for the future research
Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
This chapter reviews existing research on stylistic devices in English and Vietnamese, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of this field and identify areas for further investigation It is structured into three main sections: Literature Review, Theoretical Background, and Summary.
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Language and culture
Peeter Torop (2009) emphasizes the crucial link between culture and translation, highlighting that cultural innovation relies on the integration of new texts through translational activities This process not only enriches the culture but also helps it recognize its unique characteristics As Wittgenstein aptly noted, “the limits of my language are the limits of my world,” underscoring the significance of language in shaping cultural understanding.
Language is a fundamental component of culture, serving as a system of verbal symbols—both vocal and written—that enables communities to express their thoughts and emotions The cultural distinctions between Vietnam and Britain highlight the challenges in translating between Vietnamese and English, as culture encompasses beliefs, customs, social habits, and more Effective translation requires an understanding of the relationship between language and culture, as it involves navigating two languages and their respective cultural traditions Translators must address the cultural nuances present in the source text and employ appropriate techniques to convey these elements in the target language The varying cultural and linguistic gaps between languages can influence the approach taken in translation, necessitating a careful analysis of the source text and the author's intentions.
As gentle as a lamb = hiền như cục đất / hiền như củ khoai
In British nomadic culture, the lamb symbolizes tradition, while in Vietnam, land and potatoes represent the essence of agricultural life Despite conveying similar meanings, these idioms reflect the distinct cultural contexts from which they originate Authors adeptly express shared ideas through culturally relevant comparisons Fitzgerald's use of lexical means highlights intonation, effectively illustrated through alliteration of initial consonants.
In the bond business, we navigate through the high hallways where people engage in activities like polo, while a whimsical figure adds a playful touch to the atmosphere.
Fitzgerald's writing style reflects traditional techniques, rooted in pre-World War I assumptions, as noted by Lionel Trilling, who described him as the last significant writer to embrace the Romantic ideal of personal ambition and heroism Unlike Hemingway and Dos Passos, whose protagonists express disillusionment, Fitzgerald's male characters often uphold their beliefs, even amidst questioning and defeat He identified with the 19th-century literary tradition, considering himself "the last of the novelists for a long time now." As a storyteller, Fitzgerald fostered an intimate connection with readers through his warm and witty narrative voice Trilling highlighted his "power of love," emphasizing Fitzgerald's warmth, tenderness, and a unique gentleness that celebrated goodness rather than merely condemning evil His mastery of stylistic devices is evident in works like The Great Gatsby, which Arthur James Thurber noted could evoke a visceral response in readers Gertrude Stein recognized Fitzgerald as the only younger writer who naturally crafted sentences, underscoring his exceptional literary talent.
Stylistics and Stylistic devices
According to Leech and Short (2007), style is the costume of thinking Leech
The term "style" is often used without a clear understanding of its meaning, as noted by critics in 1969, who describe it as the manner in which something is written, spoken, or performed Stylistic devices serve as techniques for conveying meaning, persuading, and evoking emotions in readers or audiences Writers employ various techniques to enhance the vibrancy and appeal of their literary works, a field known as 'Stylistics.' Widdowson (1975) defines Stylistics as the study of literary discussion from a linguistic perspective, while Short and Candlin (1989) view it as a method that links linguistic explanation with literary texts Carter (1988) describes Stylistics as a bridge between Linguistics and Literature Analysts adopt various controversial approaches that reflect the influence of linguistics and literary appreciation, as noted by Wales (1989) Widdowson emphasizes that Stylistics connects literary criticism with linguistics, a view echoed by David Crystal (1980).
Stylistics, a branch of linguistics, examines various aspects of language deviation According to Leech and Short (2007), stylistic devices serve as a means for writers to effectively convey their messages to readers Essentially, these devices imbue language units with a stylistic meaning, manifesting an established abstract scheme aimed at producing a specific artistic effect.
Functions of Stylistic devices
Stylistic devices, as noted by Gaperin in 1977, enhance the emotional and logical emphasis of communication, playing a crucial role in creating figurative meanings and vivid imagery Figurative language effectively conveys specific feelings and stimulates imagination, thereby improving the clarity and enjoyment of both written and oral communication Stylistics, as a field of study, examines the expressive properties of linguistic units and their interaction in conveying ideas and emotions within a specific context It also explores the contrast between a word's contextual meaning and its denotative meaning, as highlighted by Wales in 2001 in "A Dictionary of Stylistics."
The primary aim of stylistics is to analyze the formal characteristics of texts not just for their own value, but to highlight their functional importance in interpreting the text This approach seeks to connect literary effects to linguistic causes when relevant, enhancing our understanding of the text's meaning and impact.
Simile is a stylistic device used to compare two or more entities, enhancing the meaning of a text It falls under the category of semantic stylistic devices and is characterized by explicit comparisons using the words "like" or "as." According to Cuddon (1965), similes clarify and enrich imagery, making them common in both prose and poetry By drawing parallels between different things that share similarities, similes serve as artistic and explanatory tools, helping readers connect unfamiliar concepts to familiar ones.
A simile consists of three components:
1) What is compared (the subject of a simile);
2) With what the comparison is made (the object of the simile);
3) The basis of the comparison
She walks like an angel
I wandered lonely as a cloud (Wordsworth)
Trẻ em như búp trên cành,
Biết ăn ngủ, biết học hành là ngoan
(Trẻ con – Hồ Chí Minh)
The stylistic functions of simile are to imaginative characterization of a phenomenon and to produce a humorous effect by its unexpectedness
Example.: A nice old man, hairless as a boiled onion
Personification is a literary device that involves attributing human qualities or characteristics to inanimate objects or abstract concepts As defined by Cuddon in 1965, it refers to the embodiment of a quality or abstraction, allowing readers to connect with non-human elements on a personal level This technique enhances storytelling by making the inanimate relatable and vivid, ultimately enriching the reader's experience.
Necessity is the mother of invention
It is a kind of metaphor in which animals, plants, inanimate objects or abstract ideas are represented as if they were human beings and possessed human qualities
Repetition is a powerful literary device that enhances clarity and memorability by repeating specific words or phrases Commonly found in both prose and poetry, this stylistic technique can involve the repetition of a single word, a phrase, a complete sentence, or even a poetic line, all aimed at emphasizing its importance within the overall context of the text.
“It was many and many a year ago,
In a kingdom by the sea,
That a maiden there lived whom you may know …
I was a child and she was a child,
In this kingdom by the sea,
But we loved with a love that was more than love —
Annabel Lee (By Edgar Allan Poe)
Edgar Allan Poe employs the refrain "In a kingdom by the sea," which appears in the second line of each stanza and is reiterated in the final line of the third stanza, effectively capturing readers' attention and enhancing the poem's meter and rhythm.
In 1980, G Lakoff and Johnson argued that metaphor extends beyond literature and rhetoric, influencing all aspects of language use A metaphor creates a comparison between two fundamentally different entities without employing "like" or "as," unlike a simile, which merely suggests that one thing resembles another.
And all the men and women merely players (Shakespeare)
Metaphors and similes are distinct stylistic devices in language; metaphors rely on the interplay between a word's logical and contextual meanings, while similes use words in their literal sense.
Hyperbole is a figurative language technique where the speaker expresses something that means another, often involving exaggeration for emphasis (Stern, 2000) According to Leech (1983), hyperbole is commonly found in everyday conversations, allowing individuals to amplify their statements This form of expression enhances feelings or emotions, whether it be humor, excitement, or distress, depending on the context By making something appear greater, better, or worse than it actually is, hyperbole effectively conveys the speaker's sentiments and adds depth to communication.
Hyperbole is a stylistic device that emphasizes the emotional and logical meanings of words by exaggerating characteristics to an impossible degree It highlights the speaker's or writer's emotions while ensuring that both the audience and the communicator recognize the intentional exaggeration This technique effectively conveys a heightened sense of feeling and drama in communication.
"What I suffer in that way no tongue can tell" (J K Jerome)
"No tongue can tell" means "it is very difficult to express by means of the language"
Hyperbole, often rooted in metonymy, serves to create humor or satire, reflecting the author's perspective on the subject Over time, frequent use of hyperbole can diminish its originality, transforming it into a conventional element of language In everyday communication, we regularly employ hyperbolic expressions, which differ from hyperbole as a distinct stylistic device.
"Đội trời đạp đất ở đời" - Truyện Kiều
Parallelism in rhetoric is a stylistic device that involves the repetition of similar structures, phrases, or clauses, enhancing the clarity and fluency of writing According to Cu Đinh Tu, this semantic procedure allows for the arrangement of words and sentences in a way that maintains a consistent grammatical form and rhythm By employing parallel structure, writers can create engaging content that is easy for readers to absorb and understand, ultimately improving readability and coherence This technique not only refines language, particularly in writing and advertising, but also ensures consistency in professional communication, guiding readers toward the intended message without confusion.
Looking towards the Southern sky and dreaming of old friends –
After Prison a Walk in the Mountains – Prison Diary (Aileen Palmer)
“Súng bên súng, đầu sát bên đầu” - Đồng Chí (Chính Hữu)
Translation is a complex transfer process that transforms written text from a source language into a target language, requiring deep syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic understanding (Wilssi, 1982) It involves expressing the original message in another language while maintaining both semantic and stylistic equivalencies (Bell, 1991).
For example, the Vietnamese sentence “Người bắt đầu học ngoại ngữ luôn luôn gặp khó khăn ngay từ bước đầu.” can be translated into the English sentence
“Beginners of foreign language always meet difficulties from the outset.” (Tran Van Diem, Dong A Language School, 1998)
Translators specialize in converting written texts from one language to another, handling a variety of assignments Their work ranges from simple documents like birth certificates and driving licenses to more intricate materials such as articles in professional journals, business contracts, and legal documents.
Translation involves transforming text from one language to another, as defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Essentially, it is a change of form, where the "form" refers to the words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs that make up a language This structural aspect of language is known as its surface structure, which is the visible component in both written and spoken communication.
Personification
Personification is a literary device that involves attributing human qualities or characteristics to inanimate objects or abstract concepts As defined by Cuddon in 1965, it is the embodiment of certain qualities or abstractions, allowing readers to connect with non-human elements on a personal level This technique enhances the emotional impact of writing by making the inanimate relatable and vivid.
Necessity is the mother of invention
It is a kind of metaphor in which animals, plants, inanimate objects or abstract ideas are represented as if they were human beings and possessed human qualities.
Repetition
Repetition is a literary device that involves the intentional use of the same words or phrases multiple times to enhance clarity and memorability This technique is prevalent in both prose and poetry, serving to emphasize key ideas Whether it’s a single word, a phrase, a complete sentence, or a poetic line, repetition plays a crucial role in highlighting its importance within the overall text.
“It was many and many a year ago,
In a kingdom by the sea,
That a maiden there lived whom you may know …
I was a child and she was a child,
In this kingdom by the sea,
But we loved with a love that was more than love —
Annabel Lee (By Edgar Allan Poe)
Edgar Allan Poe employs the refrain "In a kingdom by the sea," prominently featured in the second line of each stanza and reiterated in the concluding line of the third stanza This technique captures the readers' attention and enhances the poem's overall meter and rhythm.
Metaphor
In 1980, G Lakoff and Johnson asserted that metaphor extends beyond literature and rhetoric, influencing all language use A metaphor establishes a direct comparison between two fundamentally different entities without employing "like" or "as," distinguishing it from a simile, which merely suggests one thing resembles another.
And all the men and women merely players (Shakespeare)
The linguistic characteristics of metaphor and simile differ significantly; a metaphor relies on the interplay between a word's logical meaning and its contextual implications, while a simile uses a word in its straightforward, direct sense.
Hyperbole (exaggeration)
Hyperbole is a figurative language technique where a speaker expresses something in an exaggerated manner, often to convey a different meaning (Stern, 2000) According to Leech (1983), it is a common feature in everyday conversations, utilized to emphasize or evaluate situations This rhetorical device enhances descriptions, making them appear greater, better, or worse than reality Hyperbole typically conveys the speaker's emotions or feelings about a subject, and it can evoke humor, excitement, or distress, depending on the context of its use.
Hyperbole is a rhetorical device that emphasizes the emotional impact of a word by exaggerating its meaning to an impossible degree This intentional overstatement is recognized by both the writer and the reader, or the speaker and the listener, highlighting the intensity of emotions involved By employing hyperbole, communicators can effectively convey a heightened sense of feeling, making it a powerful tool in both written and spoken language.
"What I suffer in that way no tongue can tell" (J K Jerome)
"No tongue can tell" means "it is very difficult to express by means of the language"
Hyperbole, often grounded in metonymy such as "tongue," is frequently employed to evoke humor or satire, reflecting the author's perspective on the subject Over time, with repeated use, hyperbole can lose its uniqueness and transform into a standard linguistic unit In everyday conversation, we regularly utilize expressions that contain hyperbole, which are distinct from hyperbole as a stylistic device.
"Đội trời đạp đất ở đời" - Truyện Kiều
Parallelism
Parallelism in rhetoric is a stylistic device where similar words, phrases, or structures are repeated to create rhythm and enhance readability According to Cu Đinh Tu, this semantic procedure involves consciously arranging two or more elements in a similar grammatical form and length By employing parallel structure, writers can present ideas clearly and coherently, making it easier for readers to absorb and understand the content This technique not only refines language, particularly in writing and advertising, but also ensures consistency and balance in professional communication, guiding readers to the intended message without confusion.
Looking towards the Southern sky and dreaming of old friends –
After Prison a Walk in the Mountains – Prison Diary (Aileen Palmer)
“Súng bên súng, đầu sát bên đầu” - Đồng Chí (Chính Hữu)
Translation and translation methods
Translation is a process that involves transforming written text from a source language into an equivalent target language, as noted by Wilssi (1982) This requires a deep understanding of the source language's syntax, semantics, and pragmatics Additionally, Bell (1991) emphasizes that translation involves expressing the original message in another language while maintaining semantic and stylistic equivalence.
For example, the Vietnamese sentence “Người bắt đầu học ngoại ngữ luôn luôn gặp khó khăn ngay từ bước đầu.” can be translated into the English sentence
“Beginners of foreign language always meet difficulties from the outset.” (Tran Van Diem, Dong A Language School, 1998)
Translators focus on converting written texts from one language to another, handling a diverse range of assignments Their work can include straightforward documents like birth certificates and driving licenses, as well as more intricate materials such as articles in specialized journals, business contracts, and legal documents.
Translation, as defined by the Merriam Webster Dictionary, involves transforming text from one language to another, essentially altering its form This process encompasses the various elements of language, including words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs, which together constitute the surface structure of a language The surface structure represents the visible and audible aspects of communication, forming the foundational framework of written and spoken language.
Translation can be categorized into two main types: form-based and meaning-based Form-based translation, also known as literal translation, adheres closely to the structure of the source language, often resulting in awkward or nonsensical phrases In contrast, meaning-based translation, or idiomatic translation, prioritizes conveying the original text's meaning in a way that feels natural in the target language While interlinear translation provides a strictly literal rendering, it is often used for specific purposes, such as linguistic studies Overall, literal translation is considered a basic form of translation with limited communicative effectiveness.
Many foreign tourists have recommended May Hong Hotel to us, highlighting its appeal and positive reputation among international visitors.
A translator's objective is to convey the same message in the receptor language as in the source language, while utilizing the natural grammatical and lexical structures of the receptor language The fundamental principle of effective translation is that an idiomatic translation captures the essence of the source text in a way that feels natural and fluent in the target language.
Languages categorize their lexicons into various classes, including nouns, verbs, and adjectives Each language features unique classes and subclasses, which can complicate direct translations As a result, it may not always be feasible to translate a noun from the source language into a noun in the target language.
Grammatical structures differ significantly between source and target languages, often resulting in reversed word order For example, a simple Vietnamese sentence can be translated literally into English, highlighting these variations.
Vietnamese people tend to use active constructions to express their ideas whereas English people prefer to use passive constructions
Vietnamese: Người ta xem Ho Chi Minh là một nhà thơ vĩ đại (Active) English: Ho Chi Minh is considered to be a great poet (Passive)
The sentences provided illustrate various grammatical adjustments that can occur when a translator translates idiomatically from the source language While there may be instances where the translations align coincidentally, it is essential for translators to focus on conveying the meaning rather than ensuring that the forms are identical.
Newmark (1988) mentioned two translation types as source language emphasis and Target language emphasis:
Word-for-word translation, also known as interlinear translation, maintains the original word order of the source language while translating individual words based on their most common meanings, often out of context This method aims to help learners grasp the mechanics of the source language and facilitate the comprehension of challenging texts as part of the learning process.
English: I do not understand what you said
Word- for word translation: Tôi không hiểu những gì bạn nói
Literal translation: it is converted to the nearest target language equivalents but the lexical words are translated singly, out of context
Vietnamese: Nhớ gởi thư cho mình nhé
Literal translation: Remember to send me a letter
Faithful translation aims to accurately convey the original context while adhering to the grammatical rules of the target language It effectively transfers cultural nuances and maintains grammatical precision, ensuring that the intentions of the original writer are preserved.
English: Let sleeping dogs lie
Faithfull translation: Đừng đụng tới những còn chó đang ngủ để chúng nằm
Semantic translation prioritizes the aesthetic value of the source text, setting it apart from faithful translation, which adheres strictly to the original meaning This approach is more flexible and naturalizes the content, while faithful translation remains uncompromising Semantic translation effectively handles cultural terms with neutral or functional equivalents and emphasizes the aesthetic qualities of the source material It pays close attention to metaphors, collocations, technical jargon, slang, colloquialisms, and unique syntactic structures This translation method is particularly suited for high-status texts, including religious, legal, political speeches, and expressive literature.
English: David was overworked and half – starved
Semantic translation: David phải làm việc vất vả mà vẫn chưa đủ ăn
Adaptation: It is the freest form of translation, which is used for plays, poetry
The plot, the themes, the characters are preserved but the source language culture converted to the target language culture and the text is rewritten
English: A taste of India (Title of an illustrated book on Indian cooking) Adaptation translation: Nghệ thuật ẩm thực Ấn Độ
Free translation: it produces the matter without the manner, the content without the form of the original, which is paraphrase much longer than the original
English: That guy is as poor as a church mouse
Free translation: Anh ta nghèo rớt mồng tơi
Idiomatic translation: it reproduces the message of the original but distorts nuances of meaning by preferring idiom, colloquialism which do not exist in the original
English: David was overworked and half – starved
David works tirelessly, often facing unpredictable circumstances Communicative translation effectively conveys the original text's contextual meaning, ensuring that both content and language are easily understood by readers This approach prioritizes message effectiveness, readability, and naturalness, making it more flexible than semantic translation It is particularly suitable for informative texts that require clear and accessible language for the audience.
English: Right in the Hanoi, Hoan Kiem is an enchanting body of water, a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city
Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, tọa lạc ngay giữa trung tâm Hà Nội, là một hồ nước tuyệt đẹp, mang đến không gian yên bình, tách biệt với nhịp sống hối hả của thành phố.
Communicative translation: Hồ Hoàn Kiếm là một hồ nước đẹp, yên tĩnh nằm ở trung tâm ồn ào của Hà Nội
To sum up, translation methods are used flexibly in particular contexts so that translational versions get effective in conveying the meaning and plot of the original literature works.
Novel
A novel is a lengthy narrative that tells fictional stories through a sequence of events, featuring elements such as plot, character, and setting, similar to short stories Many novels focus on young protagonists who often grapple with societal norms According to Forster, the plot of a novel consists of narrative events organized to illustrate cause and effect The evolution of the novel reflects a shift from religious perspectives to a deeper exploration of everyday complexities, often portraying ordinary individuals and their societal challenges.
A novel may have complex themes, many characters of various atmospheres Novel can be divided in three themes They are romantic novel, adventure novel and fantasy novel (Sumardjo & Saini, 1991, p 29).
LITERATURE REVIEW
Cuddon (2013), Wales (2014), and Geoffrey (1969) explored various stylistic devices, examining their theoretical and practical significance In his renowned book "Stylistics," Galperin (1977) contributed to the understanding of these elements.
Stylistics emphasizes the significance of meaning, as it encompasses not just individual words and phrases, but also the overall expression and style employed by the writer.
In 2005, Nguyen Thi Dieu Tram conducted a study on lexical stylistic devices in William Makepeace Thackeray's "Vanity Fair," focusing on the use of metaphor and irony Her research emphasized the artistic merits of the novel, particularly in portraying characters and the social realities of the era, such as materialism and social status, through the depiction of Rebecca Sharp and her interactions within society.
Riffaterre (1964) defines stylistics in “Stylistic Context” as the linguistics of the effects of communication, emphasizing its compelling function (p.122) It is viewed as a scientific language that examines the outcomes of communication acts, focusing on systematic language phenomena rather than individual usage (Galperin, 1977) Stylistics is recognized as the “output of the act of communication,” highlighting that every form of communication—be it verbal or non-verbal, literary or non-literary—possesses its own distinct style Additionally, stylistics aids in understanding the principles behind the language choices made by individuals and social groups, encompassing aspects of socialization and the production and reception of meaning.
Stylistic devices are extensively studied in university departments of language, literature, and linguistics globally Research, such as Abioye's (2009) analysis of rhetorical questions, identifies various types and their applications in newspapers and other discourses This underscores the importance for teachers and writers to enhance their work by incorporating diverse stylistic elements.
Huang (2011) conducted a study on the application of stylistics in analyzing and assessing literary translation, particularly between English and Chinese The research emphasized the importance of preserving the original style in translations by examining various techniques and linguistic features within literary texts and their corresponding functions Additionally, it explored methods for evaluating the stylistic choices made by individual translators in their work.
Duboviciene and Skorupa (2014) explored the role of linguistic devices in print advertisements, emphasizing the significance of both figurative language and sound techniques Their analysis spans various levels, including phonological, lexical, syntactic, and semantic aspects, highlighting how these elements contribute to the effectiveness of advertisement slogans.
Trong tiếng Việt, Cu Dinh Tu (1983) đã trình bày về "Phong cách học và đặc điểm tu từ tiếng Việt," trong khi Dinh Trong Lac đã giới thiệu "99 phương tiện và biện pháp tu từ tiếng Việt."
(2003) These two books presented and analyzed stylistic devices in Vietnamese and study on many aspects of stylistic devices used in both foreign and national literary works
In numerous Master's theses, the analysis of stylistic devices has been a focal point Phan Thi Uyen Uyen (2006) examined the similarities and differences in the use of stylistic devices within the advertising language of English and Vietnamese newspapers.
Lê Thi Lai (2011) identified key stylistic devices used to depict natural scenery in both English and Vietnamese literature, while Do Thi Quy (2014) explored the application of these devices in satirizing materialism in Nguyễn Trọng Phụng's novel "Số Đỏ." Together, these studies highlight the significance of understanding stylistic devices in literary analysis.
Research on "The Great Gatsby" by F Scott Fitzgerald is limited, but Nguyen Phuong Khanh's study highlights the prominent use of irony in the novel This analysis reveals how literary elements such as plot, characterization, narration, and the author's perspective are infused with light humor, resulting in unexpected situations that engage readers.
In "The Great Gatsby," F Scott Fitzgerald masterfully curates his literary influences and imagination, using meticulously chosen details to reflect the character and aspirations of each individual A prime example is Gatsby's iconic yellow car, which Tom Buchanan dismissively refers to as a “circus wagon.” Nick Carraway vividly describes it as "a rich cream color, bright with nickel," emphasizing its extravagant features and the way it captures light, symbolizing Gatsby's opulence and the illusions of the American Dream.
In his works, Fitzgerald masterfully captured Gatsby's extravagant self-image, portraying it as a reflection of a superficial beauty His impressionistic writing style engages readers' senses, as seen in the opening of chapter 3 of The Great Gatsby, where Nick Carraway describes a vibrant party atmosphere: "There was music from my neighbor's house through the summer nights In his blue gardens, men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars."
In this study, the researcher explores the stylistic devices employed in "The Great Gatsby" to highlight their role in enhancing the narrative's success by authentically portraying characters and plots Unlike previous studies, this research offers a comparative analysis of stylistic devices between the original English text and the Vietnamese adaptation, "Gatsby Vi Dai" by Hoang Cuong.
This chapter outlines a framework for examining stylistic devices in English and Vietnamese through the lens of Structural Linguistics It details the research design focused on the use of stylistic devices in the novel "The Great Gatsby" in both languages The chapter is organized into five key sections: Research Design, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Reliability and Validity, and Summary.
RESEARCH DESIGN
This thesis employs a combination of descriptive and comparative methods, integrating both qualitative and quantitative approaches The descriptive method identifies suitable samples that showcase stylistic devices, while the comparative method analyzes the similarities and differences in the use of these devices between English and Vietnamese versions.
Qualitative research offers an in-depth, interpretive analysis of participants and their environments (Annemi & Rose-Marie 2014) This study utilized qualitative methods to identify the stylistic devices employed in a novel, highlighting their intended purposes Additionally, a quantitative approach was applied to assess the frequency of these stylistic devices within the data collected The research framework centered around figurative expressions, with sentences featuring stylistic devices serving as the units of analysis English (L2) and Vietnamese (L1) were selected for contrastive analysis to uncover both similarities and differences in the application of these stylistic elements.
DATA COLLECTION
The Great Gatsby, a 1925 novel by American author F Scott Fitzgerald, is set in the fictional towns of West Egg and East Egg on Long Island during the summer of 1922 The narrative revolves around the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby and his intense obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan While the story superficially depicts a romantic relationship, its central theme explores broader societal issues beyond mere love The events unfold over a few months in a specific geographical area, highlighting the complexities of wealth, ambition, and the American Dream.
The Great Gatsby serves as a symbolic reflection on 1920s America, highlighting the decline of the American dream amidst material excess The novel's narrator, Nick Carraway, represents the middle class and offers insight into both upper-class manners and the aspirations of the working class His dual perspective allows him to be both fascinated and disillusioned by the complexities of life As the first-person narrator, Nick shapes the story through his observations and interpretations, utilizing flashbacks to deepen readers' understanding of characters and their motivations For instance, during a poignant moment with Daisy, Nick allows her to express her emotions but then critiques the insincerity of her words, demonstrating his role as a moral compass in the narrative Although he is a peripheral character, Nick's observations and commentary significantly influence the reader's perception of the unfolding tragedy.
As in the scene previously described, he is not sentimental or sympathizes with Daisy
In Fitzgerald's narrative, Nick serves as a crucial lens through which readers can explore societal issues beyond the central doomed love story As the first-person narrator, he not only recounts the tale of a man ensnared in his dreams but also conveys Fitzgerald's social critique, highlighting more significant problems within the society This perspective encourages readers to delve deeper into the underlying themes rather than merely focusing on the peripheral romantic elements of the novel.
This study analyzes stylistic devices in both the English and Vietnamese versions of "The Great Gatsby" by Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, specifically examining the translation by Hoang Cuong By evaluating one hundred samples from the novel, the research highlights the frequency and patterns of these devices, providing insight into the characters' emotions and the author's writing style The analysis aims to deepen the understanding of the text's underlying meanings through its stylistic elements.
The following are typical examples using stylistic devices from the two languages in the novel.
PROCEDURE
This contrastive analysis consists of two main phases: a descriptive phase and a comparison phase Initially, samples were collected by examining sentences and dialogues in the novel that utilized various stylistic devices These devices were classified into categories such as metaphor, simile, metonymy, hyperbole, personification, repetition, and parallelism, with their frequencies recorded The second part of the analysis focused on the use of these stylistic devices within the novel Finally, the contrastive phase provided a comparative analysis of stylistic devices in both English and Vietnamese, emphasizing the key similarities and differences between the two languages.
DATA ANALYSIS
The stylistic devices can be found in narration of the character - storyteller
In the novel, "The Great Gatsby," Nick Carraway serves as the narrator, providing insights into the characters and their circumstances through his observations and reflections The dialogue among characters reveals their personalities and inner thoughts, enhanced by various stylistic devices that enrich the narrative This interplay between narration and dialogue allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the story's themes and character dynamics.
The study presents a qualitative analysis of stylistic devices in two versions, followed by a quantitative examination that illustrates the frequency of these devices through tables This comprehensive data analysis effectively addresses all research questions related to the topic.
The features of the stylistic devices and their functions used in “The Great Gatsby”
The stylistic devices used in “The Great Gatsby” translated into Vietnamese
RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY
In this study, every attempt to obtain the reliability and validity has been administered
This study analyzes 200 sentences featuring stylistic devices from the reliable sources of the novel "The Great Gatsby" by F Scott Fitzgerald, published in 1925 by Charles Scribner's Sons, and its Vietnamese translation "Gatsby vĩ đại" by Hoang Cuong from Lien Viet Literature Publisher The investigation aims to highlight the role of stylistic devices in the novel's success and their contribution to conveying critical societal themes and interpersonal dynamics of the time The research is grounded in the theoretical frameworks established by experienced linguists, ensuring the reliability and consistency of the study's findings.
The validity of this research is supported by the selection of English and Vietnamese versions of "The Great Gatsby" from reputable sources, including the 1925 edition by Charles Scribner's Sons and the Vietnamese translation by Hoang Cuong published by Lien Viet Literature Publisher Three Vietnamese translations exist: "Con Nguoi Hao Hoa" by Mac Do (1985), "Gatsby vĩ đại" by Hoang Cuong (1985, republished in 2004), and "Dai Gia Gatsby" by Trinh Lu (2008) The researcher chose to compare "Gatsby vĩ đại" due to its popularity and critical acclaim among readers The findings presented in this thesis are based on thorough analysis, evidence, statistics, and frequencies, further confirming the study's validity.
SUMMARY
This chapter outlines the research methodology, detailing the data collection methods, sampling techniques, and procedures involved It also discusses data analysis approaches and addresses the reliability and validity of the thesis.
3 This chapter shows in detail necessary preparations for further findings and discussion in chapter 4
Chapter Four FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
Chapter 1 examines the use of stylistic devices in The Great Gatsby, comparing evidence from English and Vietnamese corpora It analyzes the total number, frequency, and overall usage characteristics of these devices in both languages The chapter is organized into two distinct sections.
Section 4.1 presents the types and frequencies of stylistic devices utilized in both the English and Vietnamese versions of "The Great Gatsby." In Section 4.2, a comparative analysis explores the similarities and differences in the application of these stylistic devices across the two language versions.
Section 4.1 would deal with the research question 1) What are features and the functions of the stylistic devices used in “The Great Gatsby”
KINDS OF STYLISTIC DEVICES USED AND THEIR FREQUENCES IN
Simile
The analysis of 200 samples from The Great Gatsby reveals that similes account for 25% of the total, highlighting their significance as a stylistic device The author employs similes to vividly portray characters and situations, enhancing the reader's understanding of the narrative By comparing dissimilar elements using phrases like "like," "as if," and "than," similes facilitate comprehension of complex themes, making the story more accessible This frequent use of similes underscores their role in enriching the text and aiding in the interpretation of its main plot.
(1) English: “I stared at it, like Kant at his church steeple, for half an hour”
(1) Vietnamese: Như Kant đã ngắm cái tháp chuông nhà thờ của mình, tôi ngắm mãi tòa nhà ấy trong nửa giờ đồng hồ [p.93]
MetaphorHyperboleSimilePersonificationRepetitionParallelism
Immanuel Kant, an influential 18th-century German philosopher, is symbolically referenced in Nick Carraway's deep reflections while gazing at Gatsby's mansion in "The Great Gatsby." The narrative unfolds entirely through Nick's perspective, shaping the story with his insights and connections to other key characters: Tom Buchanan, Daisy Buchanan, and Jay Gatsby Nick, who is Daisy's cousin and a former college acquaintance of Tom, becomes entwined in their lives as he navigates the complex relationships among them Gatsby, Nick's enigmatic neighbor, once loved Daisy during his time in the army, while their lives intersect through a tragic lie surrounding the death of Myrtle Wilson, Tom's mistress As Nick seeks the truth behind Myrtle's accident, he becomes deeply involved in the unraveling of these intertwined destinies.
Semantic translation aims to convey the precise contextual meaning of the original text while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language (TL) This approach preserves cultural nuances and maintains a degree of grammatical and lexical fidelity to the source language (SL) norms It strives to remain true to the original writer's intentions and textual expression For instance, the phrase “Like Kant at his church steeple” was translated as “Như Kant đã ngắm cái tháp chuông nhà thờ của mình,” where the use of the word “ngắm” clarifies the philosopher's contemplative action, ensuring that the Vietnamese reader can easily grasp the intended meaning.
As a bridesmaid, I entered the bride's room thirty minutes before the bridal dinner, discovering her sprawled on the bed, radiant in her floral dress yet inebriated In one hand, she clutched a bottle of Sauterne, while the other held a letter.
(2) Vietnamese: Em vào phòng Daisy trước tiệc cưới nửa giờ, thấy nàng đang nằm dài trên gường đẹp như một đêm tháng Sáu trong chiếc áo dài hoa………” [p.75]
The simile “as lovely as” highlights Daisy's beauty as a young girl in Louisville, Kentucky, captivating the hearts of military officers, including Lieutenant Jay Gatsby, with whom she fell in love However, Daisy chose to marry Tom after Gatsby was deployed, leading her to drink herself into numbness the night before her wedding upon receiving a letter from Gatsby This use of simile underscores Daisy's reluctance to marry Tom, revealing her true feelings Additionally, the imagery of a June night, inspired by William Wordsworth, paints a picture of a serene summer evening in London, filled with chirping birds and gentle breezes, further emphasizing Daisy's enchanting beauty during her youth.
Literal translation is used to describe Daisy's status before the wedding took place
(3) English: Tom tapped his thick fingers together like a clergyman and leaned back in his chair [p 140]
(3) Vietnamese: Tom chum các ngón tay trùng trục vào nhau như một kẻ tu hành và ngả người vào trong ghế [p.140]
The use of simile throughout the story enhances readers' understanding of the plot's nuances The conflict reaches its peak during the intense confrontation between Gatsby and Tom over Daisy at the Plaza Hotel Gatsby's revelation of his past relationship with Daisy creates confusion among all characters, particularly for Tom, Daisy's husband.
The translators used semantic translation to create figurative language which helps the reader to understand different ways and facilitates their imagination
In short, simile has the highest percentage of using in The Great Gatsby, which helps the author convey the plot and describe the characters lively and more attractively.
Personification
Personification, the second most common stylistic device in English and Vietnamese at 19%, goes beyond mere decoration to impart deeper meanings in literary texts This figurative language attributes human traits to non-human entities, enhancing character depth and emotional resonance F Scott Fitzgerald exemplifies this in his novel The Great Gatsby, where he personifies trees as 'friendly' and the Buchanans' home as 'cheerful,' effectively conveying feelings to the reader Additionally, Fitzgerald's personification emphasizes character traits, such as Tom's 'arrogant' eyes that 'establish dominance,' despite eyes lacking such capability He also illustrates Daisy Buchanan's beauty by depicting sunlight on her face with 'romantic affection' and leaves that evoke 'lingering regret,' showcasing the power of personification in enriching narrative layers.
(4) English: Gatsby’s gorgeous car lurched up the rocky drive to my door and gave out a burst of melody from its three noted horn [p.63]
Chiếc xe sang trọng của Gatsby lăn bánh trên con đường sỏi đá dẫn đến nhà tôi, phát ra âm thanh du dương từ còi ba nốt.
Fitzgerald highlights Gatsby's deep unhappiness through a subtle comparison between his vibrant character and the striking appearance of his car When Gatsby arrives at Nick's home for a lunch engagement, Nick notes how "Gatsby's gorgeous car lurched up the rocky drive" and emitted a melodious sound from its horn This car, described as "gorgeous," parallels Gatsby's own immaculate and charismatic appearance, underscoring the contrast between his outward allure and inner discontent.
Personification turns Gatsby’s car into the character of the story which reflects the personality and appearance of Gatsby: gorgeous and faithful
Semantic translation enhances the imagery of Gatsby's car by incorporating figurative language such as "lộng lẫy" and "du dương." This approach allows readers to vividly visualize the car's stunning color while establishing a connection between the vehicle and its owner, Gatsby.
(5) English : Only wind in the trees which blew the wires and made the lights go off and on again as if the house had winked into the darkness [p.88]
Chỉ có gió nhẹ thổi qua, làm xào xạc các tán cây và rung chuyển những sợi dây điện, khiến ánh đèn trong ngôi nhà lấp lóe như thể đang nhấp nháy mắt với bóng đêm.
In his portrayal of Gatsby's mansion, Nick often employs light imagery, with flickering lights symbolizing Gatsby's efforts to capture Daisy's attention The personification of the house "winking into the darkness" reflects Gatsby's longing for connection, while the oscillation of the lights suggests his struggle between his constructed persona and the authentic emotions he feels in anticipation of meeting Daisy.
That Gatsby celebrated wonderful parties or turned his house into a sparkling and famous place to all surrounding people attracted Daisy ‘s attention and provoked her curiosity
This sentence used personification “winked – nháy mắt; blew – đu đưa” expressed the flickering lights very figuratively
Semantic translation emphasizes aesthetic value and aims to convey the precise grammatical meaning of the original text This approach is applied in describing the setting of the story, particularly focusing on West Egg and Gatsby’s mansion.
The view of the city from the Queensbury Bridge offers a fresh perspective, revealing its enchanting beauty and the allure of mystery that captivates every visitor Each glance unveils a unique experience, reminiscent of seeing the city for the very first time.
(6) Vietnamese: Người ta luôn cảm thấy như được trông thấy thành phố New
York lần đầu với lời hứa hẹn ngông cuồng đầu tiên của nó về tất cả những điều kì diệu và mỹ lệ trên thế giới [p.37]
As one approaches the city bridge, the view reveals a vibrant metropolis brimming with potential and aspirations, embodying the allure of the American Dream This initial impression highlights the optimistic perspective of the city, contrasting sharply with the underlying corruption that often accompanies urban life The author skillfully employs personification to depict the city as a mysterious and enchanting place, reminiscent of New York, which ignites the reader's curiosity to explore whether this enchanting facade holds true beauty or not.
Semantic translation captures the city's beauty through Nick's figurative perspective, engaging readers' imaginations and sparking curiosity about the city he describes.
(7) English: The dead dream fought on as the afternoon slipped away, trying to touch what was no longer tangible, struggling unhappily, undespairingly, toward that lost voice across the room [p.142]
Duy vẫn cố gắng níu giữ giấc mơ đã tan vỡ khi buổi chiều trôi đi, mặc dù mọi thứ xung quanh đã không còn hữu hình Anh nỗ lực một cách khổ sở để chạm tới giọng nói đã lặn mất ở phía xa trong gian phòng.
In Chapter 7, Gatsby confronts Tom, revealing his deep feelings for Daisy and his belief in her love for him, despite her refusal to tell Tom she never loved him or to leave him Gatsby clings to the hope that Daisy still loves him, even as he acknowledges the reality of his "dead dream." This pivotal moment underscores the impossibility of Gatsby and Daisy's future together, marking a turning point in the narrative.
In Gatsby's mind, his dream is vividly personified, illustrating his unwavering determination to love Daisy The phrases "trying to touch" and "struggling unhappily, undespairingly" capture Gatsby's intense emotions and relentless pursuit of his ideal, showcasing his refusal to abandon his aspirations.
The translators employed semantic translation to render the text into Vietnamese, resulting in a more intricate, focused, and detailed version that prioritizes both the meaning and the structure of the original messages.
In summary, the author employs personification in 19% of the narrative, transforming The Great Gatsby into a vibrant depiction of individuals and their lifestyles, all centered around the pursuit of wealth and fame.
Metaphor
Metaphors, which constitute 16% of the literary devices in "The Great Gatsby," create implicit comparisons between seemingly unrelated objects or concepts that share common traits The author employs these figures of speech to engage readers, enhance their imagination, and vividly illustrate the contrasting personalities of the characters, thereby reflecting the societal trends of the era.
In 'The Great Gatsby,' Fitzgerald employs powerful metaphors to reflect societal attitudes, interpersonal relationships, and emotional experiences A prominent metaphor is the 'Green Light' across the bay, symbolizing Gatsby's unattainable dreams and his longing for a life with Daisy, which embodies hope and aspiration As Nick observes, the pursuit of these dreams is relentless, suggesting that we all have our own 'green light' to chase Additionally, Fitzgerald critiques the materialistic values of society, highlighting their superficial nature with the metaphor: 'Conduct may be founded on the hard rock or the wet marshes.' This illustrates that true character cannot be measured by material possessions, revealing the shallow personalities prevalent in that era.
In the novel, some specific examples are taken:
Jay Gatsby, hailing from West Egg, Long Island, was shaped by his idealized self-image He viewed himself as a son of God, embodying a purpose that revolved around serving a grand, yet superficial beauty.
So he invented just the sort of Jay Gatsby that a seventeen-year-old boy would be likely to invent, and to this conception he was faithful to the end” [p.105]
Jay Gatsby ở West Egg, Long Island, là sản phẩm của những lý tưởng thuần khiết mà anh tự đặt ra cho bản thân Anh tự coi mình như một đứa con của Chúa, có nhiệm vụ phụng sự cái đẹp vĩ đại và lấp lánh Chính vì thế, anh đã hình thành hình ảnh Jay Gatsby, một nhân vật mà một cậu bé mười bảy tuổi có thể tưởng tượng ra, và anh đã trung thành với hình ảnh này cho đến cuối đời.
Gatsby's self-identification as a "Son of God" reveals his ambition to attain a wealthy status, highlighting his desire to be in the spotlight and achieve significance This notion extends beyond a literal interpretation, as Nick refers to Gatsby's mentor, Dan Cody, as his father figure, guiding him into the opulent world Through Cody's influence, Gatsby becomes acquainted with the "vulgar" aspects of wealth, shaping his understanding of success and social status.
“meretricious” and “beauty.” This can also be related to the harsh reality of the American Dream
Gatsby skillfully manipulates his identity, adopting a new name and accumulating vast wealth, yet Fitzgerald suggests that he remains true to his core self, unable to fully change his genuine personality Ashamed of his origins, Gatsby reinvents himself to gain the respect of Cody, maintaining this facade even after their time together ends.
The translator employed a literal translation method, ensuring that the contextual meaning of the original text was accurately conveyed while adhering to the grammatical structures of the target language This approach closely preserved the grammatical and lexical forms of the source language, effectively capturing the essence of Gatsby as a "son of God," an idealized concept conceived by Nick.
(9) English: ‘Her voice is full of money,’ he said suddenly [p.128]
(9) Vietnamese: Giọng nàng chứa đầy tiền bạc [p 128]
In F Scott Fitzgerald's novel, Jay Gatsby's metaphor linking "voice" to "money" reveals a striking dissonance that underscores his obsession with Daisy Buchanan Gatsby, who fell in love with Daisy before the war, spends the narrative striving for her affection Her voice symbolizes wealth, resonating with the musical sound of coins while representing the alluring yet hollow promise of high society Daisy's captivating voice reflects her status, while Gatsby transforms from James Gatz to Jay Gatsby, using money to craft an impressive identity This connection between voice and money highlights the themes of aspiration and the emptiness of the American Dream.
Literal translation plays a crucial role in delivering an accurate and easily understandable interpretation for readers in the target language In this context, the unfiltered thoughts of Nick and Gatsby are conveyed directly through their expressions.
“full of money” and the translation version also helps readers to imagine the meanings of their thoughts
(10) English: Tom was evidently perturbed at Daisy's running around alone, for on the following Saturday night he came with her to Gatsby's party
The evening took on a peculiar oppressiveness, distinguishing it from Gatsby's other summer parties While the same crowd and vibrant atmosphere remained, an unsettling harshness lingered in the air Perhaps my perception had shifted, as I had grown accustomed to West Egg's unique world, with its own standards and notable figures Now, seeing it through Daisy's eyes revealed a sadness in reevaluating what I had previously accepted.
Tom lo ngại khi Daisy đi chơi một mình, vì vậy anh đã cùng cô đến buổi dạ hội tại nhà Gatsby vào tối thứ bảy Sự hiện diện của Tom tạo ra một bầu không khí ngột ngạt, khiến buổi tiệc trở nên khác biệt so với những lần trước Mặc dù vẫn có những khách mời quen thuộc, sâm banh và sự náo nhiệt, nhưng tôi cảm nhận được một sự căng thẳng mà trước đây không có Có lẽ do tôi đã quen với West Egg như một thế giới tự tại với những quy tắc riêng, và giờ đây nhìn lại qua đôi mắt của Daisy, tôi không thể tránh khỏi nỗi buồn khi thấy những gì mình đã nỗ lực xây dựng.
The passage explores themes of isolation and blindness in West Egg, depicted as a "world within itself," highlighting society's detachment from the outside world Nick, initially an outsider free from judgment, gradually adapts to this isolation, indicating his shift from observer to participant in society As he becomes blind to the realities around him, he only perceives what he wishes to see, leading to disappointment upon realizing Daisy's perspective While Nick has developed his "own powers of adjustment" to cope with society's flaws, Daisy, having experienced it longer, holds a more realistic view Her disgust at the superficiality and isolation of their social environment starkly contrasts with Nick's acceptance, revealing his growing disillusionment.
This example illustrates faithful translation, which aims to convey the original's precise contextual meaning while adhering to the target language's grammatical structures (Newmark, 1988, p.81) For instance, the sentence “now I was looking at it again, through Daisy's eyes” is translated as “bây giờ tôi bỗng nhìn lại nó bằng con mắt của Daisy.” The Vietnamese translator adds “bỗng” to reflect Nick’s sudden and peculiar realization of Gatsby’s parties, effectively highlighting the contrast in his awareness before and after Daisy's arrival at the event.
(11) English :” ‘And Mr Thomas Buchanan, the athlete?’ I inquired [ p.123]
(11) Vietnamese: Còn nhà lực sĩ Thomas Buchanan đâu? [p.123]
In the novel, the character Tom Buchanan is metaphorically referred to as "the athlete Thomas Buchanan," highlighting his strong and sporty nature This description, provided by Nick, emphasizes Tom's powerful physique, likening him to a star football player with a "cruel body." The setting of the conversation takes place in Daisy's house, where the characters are gathered as guests.
He frequently hurts people and also bullies the people around him as his pastime
In this example of semantic translation, "Mr Thomas Buchana, the athlete," is rendered as "nhà lực sĩ Thomas Buchanan." This translation approach not only captures the exact contextual meaning but also emphasizes the aesthetic value of the source language text.
Repetition
Repetition constituted 14% of the total content, playing a significant role in character conversations that evoke emotional responses and emphasize key ideas In F Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, the sentence “The apartment was on the top floor—a small living-room, a small dining-room, a small bedroom, and a bath” exemplifies the use of anaphora, where the repetition of "small" underscores the cramped nature of Tom Buchanan's secretive apartment This stylistic choice not only highlights the apartment's gaudiness but also mirrors the triviality of the affair itself.
(12) English: ‘What day would suit you?’
‘What day would suit YOU?’ [p.145]
(12) Vietnamese: Hôm nào tiện cho anh?
Hôm nào tiện cho anh? [p.140]
Gatsby approaches Nick Carraway, who is Daisy's cousin, to facilitate a meeting between him and Daisy Their sincere discussions about scheduling the encounter highlight the strong bond of friendship between Nick and Gatsby Ultimately, Nick selects a day that works best for both Daisy and Gatsby, showcasing his commitment to helping his friend.
Faithful translation is used in this conversation to convey the meaning and help the readers to recognize personalities of each character – Nick and Gatsby
(13) English: I can’t talk now… I can’t talk now [100]
I can’t talk now… I can’t talk now [100]
(13) Vietnamese: Tôi không nói chuyện được bây giờ [p.98]
Tôi không nói chuyện được bây giờ [p.98]
In a revealing conversation between Gatsby and Parke about local business while giving Daisy and Nick a tour of his mansion, Gatsby's priorities become clear His repetitive dialogue conveys a sense of urgency, suggesting that he values more pressing matters over a simple phone call.
The translator used literal translation to support the readers to understand what is in Gatsby mind, in both his thoughts and his feeling
The graph illustrates that hyperbole and parallelism each account for 13% of the stylistic devices used, enhancing the novel's emotional impact These techniques create multi-layered and figurative meanings, allowing readers to connect deeply with the narrative at every stage.
Hyperbole
The speaker navigates constraints imposed by principles of effective communication while employing hyperbole as a strategic tool Hyperbolic expressions serve various discourse goals, such as conveying the speaker's attitude, emotions, and mental state This pragmatic approach enhances the intensity and impact of the message Essentially, hyperbole functions to amplify one’s perception of reality or emotional response Additionally, it plays a role in the broader context of politeness in communication.
In The Great Gatsby Novel, for example:
(14) English: Daisy: “I’m paralyzed with happiness ” [p.62]
(14) Vietnamese: Daisy: “Tôi tê liệt vì hạnh phúc” [p.60]
The term "to be paralyzed" conveys a negative connotation, representing a sense of stagnation in both English and Vietnamese, while "happiness" embodies positive emotions The juxtaposition of "paralyze" and "happiness" highlights the hyperbolic nature of Daisy’s thoughts Trapped in a loveless marriage, Daisy experienced a conflict between her desire for emotional fulfillment and her attachment to the material wealth the relationship provided Although she relished her luxurious possessions, a part of her yearned for genuine happiness and emotional satisfaction.
This example used faithful translation to convey the meaning of English version to Vietnamese one
(15) English: He dismissed all the dances he had given with a snap of his fingers [p.117]
(15) Vietnamese: Gatsby dẹp đi tất cả các buổi khiêu vũ mà anh đã tổ chức bằng một cái bật tay [p.117]
The phrase "a snap of his fingers" symbolizes Gatsby's unwavering love for Daisy, illustrating that his current wealth and lavish lifestyle are merely a means to achieve his ultimate dream of rekindling their romance Gatsby's extravagant parties are designed to capture Daisy's attention; however, when he realizes she is uninterested, he dismisses the celebrations This expression emphasizes his determination in winning Daisy's affection while highlighting the extent of his wealth and desire for her.
In this example of literal translation, Gatsby's actions highlight his disregard for wealth and extravagance, as he dismisses the significance of money, his mansion, and lavish parties His singular focus is on Daisy, a desire so intense that it transcends quantification.
Parallelism
(16) English: Daisy admired this aspect or that of the feudal silhouette against the sky, admired the gardens [p.96]
Daisy khen ngợi vẻ đẹp lôi cuốn của tòa kiến trúc đồ sộ, giống như lâu đài của một lãnh chúa, nổi bật trên nền trời Cô cũng trân trọng vẻ đẹp của khu vườn xung quanh, tạo nên một không gian tuyệt vời.
Daisy's admiration for the luxury surrounding her suggests that her desire for Gatsby's lifestyle may overshadow her feelings of love Meanwhile, her husband Tom is engaged in multiple affairs, a fact Daisy is aware of but chooses to ignore This dynamic raises questions for readers about whether Daisy's feelings for Gatsby stem from genuine love or a fascination with his wealth and status.
The phrase "admired something" is employed in a parallel structure to emphasize her affection for material possessions, such as Gatsby's grand castle and stunning gardens This use of parallelism enhances the narrative, effectively highlighting the characters' personalities and their relationships with wealth and beauty.
Semantic translation plays a crucial role in highlighting the beauty of Gatsby's property while establishing the narrative's rhythm This method focuses on an objective and neutral approach, ensuring that translations are natural without adding, reducing, or altering the original content It primarily shifts the meaning and emotional impact from the source language to the target language The translator carefully balances the aesthetic elements of the original text while maintaining accurate meanings.
(17) English: The largest of the banners and the largest of the lawns belonged to Daisy Fay’s house [p.80]
(17) Vietnamese: Lá cờ to nhất trong hàng cờ ấy và bãi cỏ to nhất trong tất cả bãi cỏ ấy là của nhà Daisy Fay [p.80]
In the narrative, Jordan Baker highlights Daisy's privileged upbringing by emphasizing her childhood home as "the largest of " through superlative parallelism This description illustrates Daisy's affluent background, showcasing her as the most popular girl in her youth, admired for her wealth and the grandeur of her house, which made her the richest and most desirable figure among her peers.
Vietnamese translation version also used parallelism and the literal translation conveyed the speech of Jordan and emphasize the origin of Daisy’s house or something else?
I was immediately impressed by the presence of well-dressed young English men scattered around, all appearing somewhat hungry and engaged in earnest conversations with successful Americans.
Tôi cảm thấy kinh ngạc khi thấy đông đảo thanh niên Anh trong đám khách, tất cả đều ăn mặc lịch sự, có vẻ hơi đói và nói chuyện sôi nổi với những người Mỹ trông chắc nịch và thành đạt.
Gatsby's extravagant parties serve a dual purpose: to capture Daisy's attention and to facilitate his business ambitions By hosting these lavish events in a wealthy neighborhood, he not only seeks to impress Daisy but also aims to connect with potential investors, using the gatherings as a platform to promote his dubious financial ventures and attract buyers for his worthless bonds.
The use of parallelism in the phrase "all " highlights the uniformity in appearance and gestures, underscoring the societal allure of achieving rapid success in an inflationary climate, rather than the traditional, gradual approach of building wealth through hard work.
Semantic translation was used to describe the English men through the narrative utterance of Nick This translation method creates the natural and smoother shade in Nick’s narration
The use of mixed stylistic devices, such as combining similes with metaphors and repetition with personification, enhances the fluidity and coherence of the narrative, allowing for a more expressive and engaging storytelling experience.
The Middle West, once perceived as the warm center of the world, now felt like the distant edge of the universe, prompting my decision to move East and explore the bond business.
Miền Trung Tây không còn là trung tâm ấm áp của thế giới, mà giờ đây trở thành một vùng rách nát của vũ trụ Do đó, tôi đã quyết định đến New York để học nghề giao dịch chứng khoán.
In the opening chapter of the novel, a clear contrast is established between East Egg and West Egg, symbolizing the divide between old and new wealth East Egg represents the fashionable side of Long Island, inhabited by the established elite, while West Egg is characterized by its less fashionable appeal, home to those who are part of the "new money" class.
In the sentence, the simile using the word "ragged" evokes an image of old and shabby conditions, typically associated with torn clothing This choice of language allows Fitzgerald to vividly portray the West as a place marked by poverty and hardship.
The next section would deal with the similarities and the differences of stylistic devices used in two Vietnamese and English versions of The Great Gatsby