A Stylistic Analysis of Gabriel Okara’s The Call of The River Nun

Abstract

Gabriel Okara's poem "The Call of the River Nun" is a profound exploration of the intricate relationship between the speaker and the natural world, particularly the river. This study employs a Functional Stylistic approach to dissect the linguistic and thematic nuances embedded within the poem. Through an examination of contextual variations, registers, and communicative functions, this analysis unveils the dynamic evolution of the speaker's connection with the river, culminating in a contemplation of life's transient nature and a quest for spiritual insight. The poem initiates with a direct acknowledgment of the river's call, establishing a context of auditory perception and suggesting a spiritual connection between the speaker and nature. As the poem progresses, the language evolves, reflecting a deepening emotional attachment to the river and a yearning for intimate communion. The poem transitions to a dynamic context, emphasizing the river's role as a driving force in the speaker's journey through life. In the final stanzas, the poem contemplates the passage of time and the approaching culmination of the speaker's journey. The sea-bird call emerges as a metaphor for transition, signifying the impending conclusion of a cycle. The language becomes symbolic and metaphysical, reflecting the speaker's contemplation of life's transient nature and the pursuit of spiritual insight. This Functional Stylistic analysis illuminates the intricate interplay between language, emotion, and the natural world in Okara's evocative poem. It underscores the transformative power of the river's call and the profound existential questions it raises. Ultimately, this study offers a deeper understanding of the poem's thematic concerns and the role of language in conveying those concerns, providing insights into Okara's skillful use of stylistic elements to evoke a spiritual connection with nature.