INVESTIGATING SEMANTIC DEVIATION IN TARIQ RAHMAN’S “DEAF, DARK, WALLS”

Abstract

This study aims to examine the semantic deviation in terms of hidden meanings in the short story “Deaf, Dark, Walls” written by Tariq Rahman by applying the semantic deviation level of the theory of foregrounding. This research is qualitative in nature. By applying semantic deviation to the short story, different themes such as asking questions from the rulers, disintegration in ideas, hope, status, freedom to express one’s thoughts, and so on in Pakistani society. Therefore, with the usage of stylistic features, this study explores the harsh reality of Pakistani society. Moreover, the Text World Theory is recommended to be applied to the short story of Tariq Rahman's “Deaf, Dark, Walls” as well as other short stories.