The Analysis of Deixis Used in Shawn Mendes' Song Lyrics

Abrar, Al Khalishah (2025) The Analysis of Deixis Used in Shawn Mendes' Song Lyrics. S1 thesis, Universitas Andalas.

	Text (Cover and Abstract) Cover and Abstract.pdf - Published Version Download (240kB)
	Text (Bab 1) Bab 1.pdf - Published Version Download (314kB)
	Text (Bab 4) Bab 4.pdf - Published Version Download (138kB)
	Text (Daftar Pustaka) Daftar Pustaka.pdf - Published Version Download (204kB)
	Text (Full Thesis) Full Thesis.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (2MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

In song lyrics, deixis plays a crucial role in conveying emotions, fostering intimacy, and engaging the listener with the narrative. This research aims to analyze the types of deixis and reference expressions found in five selected song lyrics by Shawn Mendes. The analysis focuses on identifying and categorising deictic expressions based on Huang’s (2014) classification, which includes person, spatial, temporal, social, and discourse deixis, along with emotional deixis as an additional category relevant to poetic and musical texts. The research also examines types of reference using Cruse’s (2000) theory, classifying them into definite, indefinite, and generic references. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method. The results reveal 261 deictic expressions across the lyrics, with person deixis being the most dominant, occurring in 176 instances (67%), which reflects the songs' personal and relational tone. Additionally, 25 reference expressions were identified, with definite references being the most frequent, occurring 11 instances (44%), indicating a preference for specific and emotionally resonant language. The dominant use of person deixis and definite reference demonstrates how Shawn Mendes' lyrics rely heavily on personal perspective and clear referents to build emotional connection and lyrical coherence. These linguistic elements play a significant role in shaping the meaning and emotional impact of the songs for listeners.

Actions (login required)

View Item