Genre Analysis of Grief and Happy Expressions in Pakistani Society

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the utilization of schematic structures and linguistic features in messages pertaining to death and marriage within the context of Pakistani society. By examining two contrasting emotions, the research seeks to discern how individuals in Pakistan express themselves through specific communicative moves and linguistic choices. A total of sixty samples, encompassing both Urdu and English languages, were meticulously selected and analyzed—thirty samples of marriage cards and thirty of condolence messages sourced from various newspapers. Employing Swales’ (1990) genre analysis framework, the study scrutinized the selected messages and writings on marriage cards. The findings indicated a consistent utilization of certain moves across these messages, with some moves being optional. Furthermore, the study revealed the profound cultural cohesion within Pakistani society, evidenced by the abundant use of cultural references in both marriage cards and condolence messages. Additionally, similar to other societies such as English-speaking ones, the use of euphemism is prevalent, underscoring a universal tendency to soften harsh realities through gentle language.