Unveiling Masculinity: Exploring Metaphorical Representations of Men in Pakistani Fiction through Mohsin Hamid's "Moth Smoke"

Abstract

The objective of this study is to conduct a thorough examination of the conceptual metaphors used to depict men in Pakistani society, with the aim of revealing the dominant conceptualization of male gender in Pakistan. The study is based on the Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) as its theoretical framework, and employs content analysis as the research methodology. The novel "Moth Smoke" by Mohsin Hamid has been chosen as the primary source due to its Pakistani setting, which provides a wealth of pertinent information. The findings reveal that the male gender is predominantly associated with the responsibility of earning and providing financial support for the entire family. Furthermore, men are portrayed as enjoying autonomy, allowing them to prioritize their own needs and desires. The outcomes of this study hold significant potential for future researchers investigating the role of conceptual metaphors in shaping gender conceptualization within societies, as well as their significance in literature as a medium for representing gender dynamics. By delving into the metaphoric representations of men in Pakistani fiction, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the cultural construction of masculinity in Pakistan and highlights the nuanced ways in which gender roles are portrayed and perceived in the literary realm.