PARALLELISM AND MEANING: A STYLISTIC ANALYSIS OF LEXICAL REPETITION IN FARZANA AQIB'S CHASE (2021)

Abstract

This study examines the role of lexical parallelism in meaning-making through a stylistic analysis of Farzana Aqib's poem, Chase from her collection The Stardust Drape (2021). The key idea examined is how the repetition of specific determiners every and any functions beyond structural cohesion to express psychological persistence, spiritual pursuit, and social challenges. Drawing on Leech and Short’s (2007) theory of parallelism and the methodology of close reading, the study argues that such repeated patterns emphasize both individual struggle and universal hope. Findings suggest that lexical parallelism in Aqib’s work deepens thematic resonance and reflects a culturally situated poetic voice. The novelty of this study lies in applying lexical stylistic tools to contemporary Pakistani English poetry, offering a pathway for further stylistic and cultural explorations.