Unveiling Voices: A Stylistic Analysis of Speech and Thought Presentation in Khaled Hosseini’s A Thousand Splendid Suns

Abstract

The current study offers analysis of speech and thought presentation in Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns by utilizing the model by Leech and Short (1981). The research aims to reveal the subtle and unique ways in which Hosseini employs the multifaceted perspectives, narrative techniques, and linguistic choices to convey the characters' thoughts and emotions. In Afghanistan bound by the ravages of war, the lives of Mariam and Laila, two Afghan women, are intricately intertwined in Hosseini's novel. By comprehensively scrutinizing direct and indirect speech, stream of consciousness, and free indirect discourse, this study seeks to showcase the author's distinct narrative strategies and distinctive voices. Embedded within the characters' dialogues and inner musings are sociocultural and political implications which elevate our comprehension of the socio-historical background surrounding the narrative. By studying the impact of speech and thought presentation on character development, thematic exploration, and the overall aesthetic quality of the narrative, this analysis delves deeper into the intricacies of the story. Providing a profound recognition of Hosseini's artistry. The findings show that the Speech presentation is most used category by the Hosseini’s as compared to the Thought Presentation.