QUOTATIONS VERBS FOUND IN THE NOVEL THE NAMESAKE BY JHUMPA

LAHIRI

Abstract: This study explores Jhumpa Lahiri's book "The Namesake," paying particular
attention to the significant role quotation verbs have in illustrating topics related to identity,
cultural assimilation, and interpersonal relationships. Using a qualitative approach and
library research, the study carefully investigates verb quotation cases to reveal significant
events in the characters' lives. The analysis reveals a deliberate use of verb quotation,
highlighting language that authentically captures the characters' voices. Important scenes,
such as name changes, cultural adaptations, and emotional exchanges, highlight the
linguistic creativity that heightens the story's impact. The study emphasizes how language
choices impact readers' comprehension and improve their ability to understand Lahiri's
narrative. Ultimately, this analysis sheds light on the complex relationship between language
and story, enabling readers to understand the complex meaning behind the characters'
spoken words and the book's larger thematic fabric.

Keywords: Critical Discourse Analysis, The Namesake, Quotations Verbs

Abstrak: Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi buku "The Namesake" karya Jhumpa Lahiri, dengan
memberikan perhatian khusus pada peran penting yang dimiliki oleh kata kerja kutipan
dalam mengilustrasikan topik-topik yang berkaitan dengan identitas, asimilasi budaya, dan
hubungan antarpribadi. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dan penelitian pustaka,
penelitian ini menyelidiki kasus-kasus kutipan kata kerja dengan cermat untuk mengungkap
peristiwa-peristiwa penting dalam kehidupan para karakter. Analisis ini mengungkapkan
penggunaan kutipan kata kerja yang disengaja, menyoroti bahasa yang secara otentik dan
jelas menangkap suara karakter. Adegan-adegan penting, seperti perubahan nama, adaptasi
budaya, dan pertukaran emosional, menyoroti kreativitas linguistik yang meningkatkan
dampak cerita. Penelitian ini menekankan bagaimana pilihan bahasa berdampak pada
pemahaman pembaca dan meningkatkan kemampuan mereka untuk memahami narasi Lahiri.
Pada akhirnya, analisis ini menyoroti hubungan yang kompleks antara bahasa dan cerita,
memungkinkan pembaca untuk memahami makna kompleks di balik kata-kata yang
diucapkan para karakter dan struktur tematik buku yang lebih besar.

Kata Kunci: Analisis Wacana Kritis, The Namesake, Kata Kerja Kutipan
INTRODUCTION

Jhumpa Lahiri's novel, "The Namesake," is a poignant exploration of identity, cultural

assimilation, and the complexities of the immigrant experience in America. Set against the
backdrop of the Indian diaspora, the novel follows the life of Gogol Ganguli, born to Bengali
parents in the United States. Lahiri's rich prose and nuanced storytelling weave a tapestry of
emotions, resonating with readers profoundly. As we delve into the intricacies of "The
Namesake," it becomes evident that the language used, particularly the incorporation of
quotations and verbs, plays a crucial role in conveying the novel's themes and character
dynamics.

According to Eldh et al., (2020), studying quotations in literature is essential for

unraveling the layers of meaning embedded in a text. Quotations serve as windows into
characters' thoughts and dialogues, providing readers with a direct connection to the
narrative. Furthermore, the choice of verbs within these quotations adds depth to the
storytelling, influencing the narrative's tone, mood, and overall impact. In the case of "The
Namesake," a closer examination of these linguistic elements promises to unveil subtle
nuances that contribute to the novel's broader themes. This paper aims to delve into the
intricate web of quotations and verbs within the text, illuminating their role and significance
in conveying the profound meaning woven into Lahiri's narrative.

This research paper explores the role and significance of quotation verbs in "The
Namesake." By dissecting specific instances of quotations and analyzing the verbs employed
in these contexts, this paper aims to unravel the layers of meaning that contribute to the
novel's narrative tapestry. Through this exploration, this research shed light on how language
choices, specifically in the form of quotations and verbs, shape the reader's understanding of
the characters, their relationships, and the broader thematic underpinnings of Lahiri's work. In
doing so, we hope to provide a deeper appreciation for the linguistic artistry that enhances the
impact of "The Namesake."

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Quotations

In a variety of discourse contexts, from regular conversation to scholarly and legal

settings, quotations are common. They can be multilayered, with one quotation embedded
within another, and range in length. Quoting someone helps to create a common discourse
that allows people to communicate effectively with one another. Furthermore, quotes have an
interpersonal purpose since they establish a sense of connection between the quoter, the
quoted, the source, and the recipients.

Numerous disciplines analyze quotations, including linguistics, pragmatics, discourse

analysis, and conversation analysis. Scholars have investigated several formats associated
with quoter, source, quotative, and quoted, considering their communicative and subjective
purposes. When someone quotes, they are contextualizing unbounded situational domains—
such as the source's identity, force, and other contextual coordinates—and presenting them in
a different context (Fetzer, 2011). Quotations become a sophisticated type of communicative
action due to the quoter's need to adjust to the discursive limits of the quoted discourse.

When used in conversation, quoting is a unique kind of communication performed at

a higher level than other speech acts. When content and context are textualized and presented
in quotations, the level of explicitness is increased relative to the source representation.
Beyond just language context, quotes also incorporate the contextualized social and cognitive
settings of both the source and the cited. Quotations typically require (re)contextualization of
content or force since they call for reevaluating the communicative status and validity of the
cited and its source in the quoting context (Wilson, 2012).

Moreover, quotations have an anaphoric purpose; they recall earlier talk and recycle
certain passages to add to current conversations. Their value is found in entextualization,
meta-representation, and context importation, making them essential instruments for
discourse argumentation (Austin, 1975). The intricacy and richness of the communicative act
of quoting are made clear by research in several domains, including relevance theory and
Austinian speech act theory.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Numerous research projects have explored the phenomena of quoting in discourse;

Elewa (2019) and Fetzer (2019) have carried out significant studies in this regard. But it is
important to remember that Fetzer's (2019) research focuses on the function of quotations in
the Prime Minister's speech in a mediated political environment. In contrast, Elewa's (2019)
study is focused on the context of Arabic newspapers. Taking note of the unique focus of
these studies, this paper aims to expand the field by focusing on using quotations in literary
works. In particular, well-known literary works like Jhumpa Lahiri's "The Namesake" will be
discussed.
 The study intends to investigate quotations' complex roles and implications in a
literary setting by using this broader lens, highlighting how they support the thematic and
stylistic components of "The Namesake." The article aims to untangle the various ways that
Lahiri's use of quoted discourse weaves together characters, ideas, and cultural factors
through a close examination of how quotations are used in the story. This enlarged
investigation hopes to advance the conversation on the relationship between language,
culture, and narrative formation in literary studies by providing a thorough knowledge of the
function and importance of quotations in literary works.

METHODS

This study uses a qualitative methodology to explore the data's complexities through
an in-depth examination. According to Bogdan and Tylor, as cited in Moloeng (2013: 4), this
approach comprehends how the researcher builds, analyzes, and makes sense of the data.
Using a qualitative lens with Fairclough’s model of Critical Discourse Analysis, the study
seeks to reveal complex meanings and insights hidden in the data, enabling a thorough
investigation of the topic matter featured in Jhumpa Lahiri's novel The Namesake.

Moreover, this study is based on a library research methodology, in which the

researchers downloaded relevant books and journals and checked trustworthy websites to
obtain information. This methodological decision highlights using academic resources and
previously published research to develop a thorough grasp of the selected topic. By carefully
examining these literary sources, the research aims to extract valuable data that improves a
more comprehensive understanding of the function and importance of quote verbs in The
Namesake.

FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION

Datum 1

"I'm Nikhil," he says for the first time in his life. (Lahiri, 2003; p. 49)

The data above emphasizes a crucial moment in the protagonist's life. At this point,
Gogol Ganguli decides to change his name to Nikhil. This choice symbolizes his journey of
self-discovery and acceptance. Before this moment, Gogol grapples with the name given to
him by his parents, feeling disconnected from it. Using the quoting verb highlights the
significance of Gogol verbally affirming his new identity. Choosing the name Nikhil becomes
a powerful declaration, representing his autonomy and a break from societal and cultural
expectations.

This moment is a turning point in the narrative, illustrating Gogol's growth and
willingness to shape his identity. By using quoting verbs, the author brings attention to
naming as a pivotal aspect of personal development. The simplicity of the words used in this
passage reflects the profound nature of Gogol's decision and the broader themes of identity
and self-definition explored in the novel.

Datum 2

"Nikhil," she says, blowing a thin plume of smoke toward the ceiling. Again she turns to him
and smiles. "Nikhil," she repeats. "I've never heard that before. That's a lovely name." (Lahiri,
2003; p. 49)

This dialogue occurs when Gogol, who recently embraced Nikhil, meets a woman at a party.
The quoting verbs, like "she says" and "she repeats," emphasize the impact of Gogol's name
change on the interaction. The woman's repetition of the name "Nikhil" reflects a genuine
appreciation for its uniqueness. The use of quoting verbs highlights her verbal
acknowledgment and admiration, underlining the significance of Gogol's decision to adopt a
new name. This moment illustrates the ripple effect of a simple act of self-naming, showing
how it captures the attention and curiosity of others and becomes a focal point in social
interactions. This interaction highlights the power of names in shaping social interactions and
underlines the ongoing exploration of identity in the novel.

Datum 3

"Not your ordinary guy, Nikolai Gogol," Mr. Lawson says. (Lahiri. 2003; p. 46)

The quoted dialogue occurs when Mr. Lawson, a character in the story, remarks
Gogol, the protagonist named after the Russian writer Nikolai Gogol. The use of quoting
verbs, like "Mr. Lawson says," highlights the spoken expression of Mr. Lawson's opinion.
The phrase "Not your ordinary guy, Nikolai Gogol" reflects Mr. Lawson's recognition of the
uniqueness associated with Gogol's name. The quoting verbs draw attention to Mr. Lawson's
verbal acknowledgment, emphasizing the impact of names on people's perceptions and
expectations.

Datum 4
"What does it mean, dilated?" she asks. (Lahiri. 2003; p. 5)

In "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri, this dialogue occurs early in the story when
Ashoke Ganguli, Gogol's father, is reading a book on a train journey. The quoting verb "she
asks" emphasizes Ashoke's wife, Ashima's, curiosity about the word "dilated." This moment
reflects the cultural and linguistic adjustments the characters face as immigrants in the United
States. The quoting verb emphasizes the spoken nature of Ashima's inquiry, showcasing her
engagement with the English language and her desire to understand unfamiliar words. The
dialogue serves as a glimpse into the challenges faced by the Ganguli family as they navigate
a new language and culture. The quoting verb highlights Ashima's active participation in the
process of learning and understanding, emphasizing the importance of communication in the
immigrant experience. This early interaction sets the stage for the broader exploration of
identity, language, and cultural assimilation throughout the novel.

Datum 5

"I'll be back," Ashoke says to her in Bengali, and then a nurse adds: "Don't you worry,
Mr. Ganguli. She's got a long ways to go. We can take over from here.” (Lahiri. 2003; p. 5)

This dialogue between Ashoke and the nurse is marked by quoting verbs, such as "Ashoke
says" and "a nurse adds," which underscore the importance of spoken communication in this
critical moment. Ashoke's reassurance to Ashima in Bengali, "I'll be back," reflects the
emotional support between husband and wife during the significant event of childbirth. The
quoting verbs highlight the personal connection conveyed through spoken words, capturing
the tender and supportive atmosphere in the hospital room.

The nurse's subsequent remark, "Don't you worry, Mr. Ganguli. She's got a long ways
to go. We can take over from here," demonstrates the practical and collaborative nature of the
medical professionals involved. The quoting verbs emphasize the spoken exchanges, offering
insights into both the emotional and logistical aspects of the characters' experiences. This
linguistic emphasis enhances the reader's engagement, bringing forth the nuances of the
dialogue in a crucial moment of transition and anticipation.

Datum 6
 "Goddamnit, goddamn you, this is hell," she hears one of them say. (Lahiri. 2003; p.
6)

The quoted dialogue, marked by the verb "she hears," unfolds during a pivotal moment in the
narrative – Ashima's childbirth at the hospital. This use of quoting verbs places emphasis on
Ashima's sensory experience, particularly her perception of the intense scene. The words
"Goddamnit, goddamn you, this is hell" uttered by one of the characters convey a palpable
sense of distress and frustration, offering a glimpse into the emotional turbulence of the
childbirth process. The choice of the quoting verb "she hears" heightens the immediacy of the
auditory elements in the narrative, allowing the reader to vividly share in Ashima's
experience of the chaotic and emotionally charged atmosphere within the hospital room.

In this brief yet impactful dialogue, the quoting verbs not only convey the spoken
words but also serve as a narrative device to immerse the reader in the intense emotions of
the moment. By focusing on what Ashima hears, the author uses language to create a sensory
connection, inviting readers to experience the challenges and turmoil alongside the
characters. This linguistic emphasis adds depth to the storytelling, making the scene more
resonant and engaging within the broader context of the novel.

Datum 7

"Read all the Russians, and then reread them," his grandfather had said. "They will
never fail you." (Lahiri. 2003; p. 10)

The mentioned dialogue appears early in the novel "The Namesake" by Jhumpa
Lahiri, on page 10. During this moment, the grandfather imparts a piece of advice to Gogol,
urging him to not only read the works of Russian authors but to revisit them. The use of
quoting verbs in this instance, such as "had said," serves as a literary device to attribute the
words directly to the grandfather. These verbs help clarify that the dialogue is part of a larger
narrative, emphasizing the importance of the grandfather's wisdom in encouraging a thorough
exploration of Russian literature.

By employing quoting verbs, the author establishes a clear connection between the
characters and their spoken words, providing a sense of authority to the grandfather's advice.
The repeated emphasis on reading and rereading the Russians suggests a timeless and
enduring quality to the shared wisdom, reinforcing the notion that the insights from Russian
literature possess a lasting impact. In this way, the quoting verbs convey information and
contribute to the overall narrative style, enriching the reader's engagement with the characters
and their shared cultural heritage.

Datum 8

"Seen much of this world?" Ghosh asked Ashoke, untying his shoes and settling
himself cross-legged on the berth. "Once to Delhi," Ashoke replied. "And lately once a year
to Jamshedpur." (Lahiri. 2003; p. 10)

This dialogue occurs in "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri when Ghosh, a character,
questions Ashoke about his travels. The exchange is located in the text when Ghosh unties his
shoes and sits comfortably on a berth. The quoting verbs, such as "asked" and "replied," serve
to present the conversation between Ghosh and Ashoke distinctly. These verbs signify the
direct speech of the characters, creating a clear distinction between their words and the rest of
the narrative.

The use of quoting verbs adds a conversational tone to the writing, immersing the
reader in the interaction between Ghosh and Ashoke. Ghosh's inquiry about Ashoke's worldly
experiences and Ashoke's brief response offer insight into their characters and their lives. The
quoting verbs contribute to the storytelling by highlighting the direct communication between
the two characters, giving the reader a sense of the unfolding dialogue and the dynamics
between them during this moment in the narrative.

Datum 9

"I won't," she insists thickly, looking neither at the baby nor at him. She pulls back a bit of the
curtain, then lets it fall. "Not here. Not like this." (Lahiri. 2003; p. 20)

This dialogue captures a significant moment between two characters, possibly Ashima
and her husband. The quoting verbs, such as "insists," "admitting," and "saying," serve to
present the characters' emotions and thoughts distinctly. They bring the characters' words to
the forefront, creating a clear separation between their dialogue and the rest of the narrative.

The use of quoting verbs helps convey the emotional weight of the conversation. The
insistence and thick tone in Ashima's words and her not looking at the baby or her husband
suggest a complex and serious discussion. The quoting verbs contribute to the immediacy of
the moment, allowing the reader to witness the characters expressing their desires and
concerns directly. This technique adds depth to the storytelling by emphasizing the characters'
voices, making the reader more engaged in the unfolding drama of Ashima, expressing her
longing to return to her home country and not wanting to raise their child alone in a foreign
land.

Datum 10

"We are dying to see him," her mother writes. "These are the most crucial months. Every hour
there is a change. Remember it." Ashima writes back with careful descriptions of her son,
reporting the circumstances of his first smile, the day he first rolls over, his first squeal of
delight. (Lahiri. 2003; p. 21)

This conversation unfolds as Ashima's mother expresses eagerness to see her

grandson. The quoting verbs, like "writes" and "reports," distinctly present the exchange
between Ashima and her mother. These verbs highlight the direct communication, making it
clear that the words belong to the characters and are an integral part of the narrative.

Using quoting verbs emphasizes the importance of the updates Ashima provides about
her son to her mother. The careful descriptions of the baby's milestones, such as the first
smile and the day he rolls over, create a vivid picture of the child's development. The quoting
verbs contribute to the sense of immediacy and personal connection, allowing the reader to
witness the emotional exchange between Ashima and her mother. This technique enhances
the storytelling by bringing the characters' voices to the forefront, engaging the reader in the
intimate moments of Ashima sharing the details of her son's early experiences with her
mother.

Datum 11

"We never got as far as India," Edith tells him. "We would certainly have loved to have seen
that." (Lahiri. 2003; p. 76)

The data above expresses a missed opportunity to visit the country. Her regret is
evident as she adds, "We would certainly have loved to have seen that." This dialogue reflects
on unfulfilled desires and the longing for experiences that never came to fruition.

Quoting verbs like "tells" and "says" convey the characters' spoken words, creating a
direct and authentic connection with the readers. These verbs act as a bridge, allowing the
audience to enter the characters' conversation and gain insight into their thoughts and
emotions. By employing such verbs, the narrative not only recounts the dialogue but also
vividly portrays the characters' feelings and unmet aspirations, enhancing the overall
storytelling experience.

Datum 12

"I'm so bored," she complains. (Lahiri. 2003; p. 90)

The quote reveals a moment of dissatisfaction and monotony in the character's

experience. This dialogue captures a sense of restlessness and discontent within the
character's emotions. Using the quoting verb "complains" emphasizes the tone of
dissatisfaction, highlighting the character's desire for something more engaging or interesting
in that particular situation.

Quoting verbs, such as "complains," play a crucial role in storytelling by directly

conveying characters' expressions and moods. They help readers connect with the characters
personally, allowing them to grasp the emotional nuances within the dialogue. In this
instance, the choice of the quoting verb emphasizes the character's state of mind, emphasizing
the feeling of boredom and dissatisfaction that permeates the scene.

Datum 13

"A little. I guess a little part of me wishes I'd never left Paris, you know?" He leans over,
takes both her hands in his. "But then we would never have met," he says, with more
confidence than he feels. "True," she acknowledges. (Lahiri. 2003; p. 114)

The dialogue unfolds when the character reflects, "A little. I guess a little part of me
wishes I'd never left Paris, you know?" This expression reveals a subtle sense of nostalgia
and a longing for a different path. The quoting verbs, like "says" and "acknowledges," are
used to precisely capture the characters' spoken words, bringing forth the nuanced emotions
embedded in their conversation.

The quoting verbs are key in presenting the characters' sentiments directly. When the
character leans over and takes both her hands, saying, "But then we would never have met," it
underscores a pivotal moment where the character realizes the importance of their meeting.
The choice of quoting verbs helps convey the sincerity and significance of this revelation,
allowing readers to delve into the characters' connection and the impact of their encounter on
the narrative.

CONCLUSION
 In conclusion, exploring quotation verbs in Jhumpa Lahiri's novel The Namesake
uncovers a profound layering of meaning within the narrative. Through the lens of linguistic
elements, particularly quoting verbs, the research delved into pivotal moments in the
characters' lives, revealing the intricate dance of identity, cultural assimilation, and
interpersonal dynamics. The analysis unveiled how the author strategically employed quoting
verbs to highlight significant dialogues, bringing forth the characters' voices with clarity and
authenticity. The moments of name changes, cultural adjustments, and emotional exchanges
were intricately woven into the narrative fabric, showcasing the power of language in
conveying the characters' growth and the broader thematic underpinnings of the novel.

Furthermore, the qualitative methodology and library research approach proved

instrumental in unraveling the complexities of Lahiri's work. The study provided insights into
the characters' thoughts, emotions, and the unfolding narrative by carefully examining
specific instances of quoting verbs. The research underscored the role of language choices in
shaping reader understanding and appreciation for the linguistic artistry that enhances the
impact of The Namesake. In essence, this examination of linguistic elements has enriched our
comprehension of Lahiri's storytelling and shed light on the intricate interplay between
language and narrative, inviting readers to appreciate the nuances embedded in the characters'
spoken words and the broader thematic tapestry of the novel.

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Lahiri, J. (2003). The Namesake. London: Flamingo.

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