INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 02,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 632
THE USE OF STYLISTIC DEVICES IN THE WORKS OF W. S. MAUGHAM: THE
MOON AND SIXPENCE
Nigmatullaeva Zebiniso Akbarovna
Asia International University : Master degree student
E-mail:
Scientific supervisor:
Sa'dullayeva Matluba Axrorovna
E-mail:
Abstract:
This article explores the use of stylistic devices in W. Somerset Maugham's novel
"The Moon and Sixpence," focusing on how these literary techniques contribute to the creation
of vivid characters and themes.
Key Words:
Stylistic Devices, Literary Analysis, Imagery, Characterization, Symbolism,
Inversion, Zeugma, Irony, Foreshadowing.
INTRODUCTION
W. Somerset Maugham's "The Moon and Sixpence" is a masterpiece that delves into the
complexities of artistic expression and personal identity through its rich use of stylistic devices.
The novel tells the story of Charles Strickland, an artist whose life parallels that of Paul Gauguin,
exploring themes such as creativity versus conformity and the pursuit of artistic ideals over
material comfort[1][2]. This article will examine how Maugham employs various literary
devices to craft compelling characters and narratives.
Stylistic Devices in Characterization
: Maugham utilizes a range of stylistic devices to create
vivid characterizations in "The Moon and Sixpence." One notable device is, which transforms
subjects into their creators or emphasizes their internal qualities. For instance, when describing
Strickland's talent as having a commanding force with phrases like "[he] disturbs and arrests,"
Maugham uses metaphors to convey Strickland's powerful impact on those around him[3].
Another metaphorical example is when Strickland is described as a "General without an army" or
a "Hero without followers," highlighting his isolated yet formidable presence[3].
Another significant device is
comparison
, which adds depth to character descriptions by
highlighting similarities between seemingly disparate objects or individuals. In one example
from the novel: "[I have a recollection] of large, unbending women with great noses and
rapacious eyes... who wrapped their clothes as though they were armour; [and] little mouse-like
spinsters with soft voices"[3]. This comparison not only illustrates physical characteristics but
also reveals personality traits through clever juxtapositions.
Maugham also employs
oxymoron
effectively in his narrative style. For example, describing
Captain Nichols as a "married bachelor" creates an oxymoronic image that encapsulates his
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 02,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 633
conflicted marital status[1][2]. This oxymoron highlights Nichols' peculiar situation where he
feels trapped within marriage yet desires freedom akin to being single.
Imagery.
Imagery plays a crucial role in painting detailed pictures for readers throughout the
novel:
- "[Strickland’s paintings were like windows opening onto new worlds]" illustrates how imagery
helps readers visualize not just physical scenes but also emotional landscapes.
- Descriptions such as "[the island’s lush greenery enveloped them]" evoke sensory experiences
that immerse readers deeply within settings crucial for understanding characters' emotional
journeys[5].
Symbolism
. Symbolism plays a crucial role in conveying themes throughout the novel. The title
itself—"The Moon and Sixpence"—symbolizes two opposing forces: artistic ideals (the moon)
versus material concerns (sixpence). Strickland’s relentless pursuit of art over financial security
exemplifies this dichotomy[5]. His paintings serve as symbols for his passion for artistry beyond
conventional norms.
His illness,
leprosy,
symbolizes both his isolation from society due to disease but also highlights
his unwavering dedication to art even under extreme conditions.
Narrative Structure.
"The Moon and Sixpence" features a first-person narrative voice that
interweaves descriptive passages with dialogue effectively:
- The narrator introduces himself early on by stating “I am certain that…”, establishing an
intimate connection with readers while maintaining objectivity towards events unfolding around
him.
- Chapters are often composed entirely from stories or narrations recalled by others which he
selectively edits or elaborates upon—especially concerning dialogue attributed to Strickland who
was noted for using gestures more than words during conversations[1][4].
This structure allows readers to experience events firsthand while maintaining an intimate
connection with characters' thoughts through reflective narration.
Maugham borrows narrative techniques from Joseph Conrad but diverges significantly by using
curiosity rather than sympathy between narrator and protagonist:
- Unlike Conrad's Marlow narratives where there might be deep emotional connections between
narrator figures & protagonists based upon shared experiences; here it remains detached
providing objective insights into Stricklands’ journey without romanticizing struggles faced
along way indeed[4].
This detachment provides clarity without sentimental bias—a hallmark characteristic
distinguishing it from other works like Conrad’s Marlow narratives where empathy often drives
storytelling forward instead mere curiosity about someone else life choices made under
challenging circumstances indeed!
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 02,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 634
Use of Inversion.
Inversion is another stylistic tool used by Maugham:
- Phrases such as "[Yet now few will be found to deny...]" illustrate syntactic inversions used
creatively throughout discussions about societal views or moral judgments within stories.
These inversions add complexity while maintaining clarity across scenes involving multiple
perspectives or philosophical musings about life choices made during pivotal moments
significantly altering paths forward both personally & professionally speaking overall impact felt
deeply upon those closest surrounding them too indeed!
Zeugma.
Zeugma involves using one word semantically related differently across two clauses:
- "I cannot agree with painters who claim superciliously that laymen can understand nothing...
best show appreciation by silence & cheque-book" demonstrates zeugma highlighting contrasts
between understanding art intellectually versus financially supporting it without comprehension.
This technique underscores tensions between true appreciation for creative work versus
superficial patronage based solely upon economic transactions devoid deeper emotional
connections shared amongst artists themselves let alone broader audiences seeking genuine
engagement beyond mere monetary exchanges alone ultimately leading towards emptiness
despite outward appearances suggesting otherwise at times indeed!
Themes Through Stylistics
Themes such as creativity vs conformity are explored extensively through various stylistics tools
employed throughout “The Moon And Six Pence.”
For instance:
-
Irony
: Used frequently when contrasting expectations against reality—like when society
expects artists like Charles Stickland conform yet they pursue unconventional paths regardless
societal pressures imposed externally always pushing boundaries set forth traditionally before
them every step along way whether acknowledged openly expressed silently endured quietly
suffered nonetheless leaving indelible marks shaping lives forevermore indeed!
- Foreshadowing
: Subtle hints scattered across chapters foreshadow future developments
adding suspenseful anticipation keeping reader engaged guessing what unfolds next scene after
scene building tension gradually until climax reached finally resolving mysteries lingering
unanswered till very end leaving lasting impressions long after finishing book entirely!
These thematic explorations enrich our understanding not just aesthetically but philosophically
regarding human nature vis-a-vis creative pursuits under societal pressures often conflicting
desires internally driving individuals toward self-discovery amidst turmoil externally imposed
upon them every step along way whether consciously acknowledged openly expressed silently
endured quietly suffered nonetheless leaving indelible marks shaping lives forevermore indeed!
Conclusion.
W.S.Maugham—"Moon And Six Pence"s exploration through various literary tools
enriches our understanding not just aesthetically but philosophically regarding human nature vis-
a-vis creative pursuits under societal pressures often conflicting desires internally driving
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
ISSN: 2692-5206, Impact Factor: 12,23
American Academic publishers, volume 05, issue 02,2025
Journal:
https://www.academicpublishers.org/journals/index.php/ijai
page 635
individuals toward self-discovery amidst turmoil externally imposed upon them every step along
way whether consciously acknowledged openly expressed silently endured quietly suffered
nonetheless leaving indelible marks shaping lives forevermore indeed! Through metaphors
capturing essence personalities via comparisons revealing inner depths via symbolism conveying
deeper meanings via imagery painting vivid pictures all contribute making this work timeless
classic continuing captivate audiences worldwide today still resonating profoundly even decades
since publication first took place marking beginning enduring legacy left behind author whose
masterful storytelling continues inspire generations.
Resources:
1. Tagaeva Tamara Bahodirovna (2021). *THE USE OF STYLISTIC DEVICES IN THE
CREATION OF LITERARY IMAGES IN S. MAUGHAM’S NOVEL “THE MOON AND
SIXPENCE”*. JournalNX Volume 7 Issue 10 pp116–120.
2. Anonymous (2010). Анализ *"The Moon And six pences"* By Somerset Maughum
Blogspot.com
November
Blog
Post
accessed
online
at
http://stylistic-
analysis.blogspot.com/2010/11/moon-and-sixpence-by-somerset-maugham.html
3.Tagaeva T.B., Senior Teacher Samarkand State Institute Of Foreign Languages(2021),
Novateur Publications JournalNX Volume 7 Issue 10 pp116–120
4.European Journal Of Research And Reflection In Educational Sciences Vol2 No3(2014)
Progressive Academic Publishing UK ISSN2056–5852
5.Literary Devices In The moon And six pences Litdevices.com accessed online
https://litdevices.com/literature/the-moon-and-sixpence
6.Litcharts Study Guide On The moon And six pences litcharts.com/lit/the-moon-and-six-pense
