Metaphors in Pantuns as Social Criticism in Forming Human Values

Abstract

Criticisms in traditional Malay works are produced in various forms, and usually, the criticisms are not conveyed in an explicit or blunt manner. Therefore, the language used to convey the criticisms is figurative language filled with similes and metaphors. These forms of criticisms can be observed in proverbs, pantuns, and other forms of poems, songs, tales of humour and of animals, folktales, sagas, and historical literature. Social criticisms through metaphorical elements in poems are able to depict the wisdom of the Malays in the times of old. This paper aims to identify the metaphorical elements found in pantuns and analyse the social criticisms and values in them based on the Relevance theory. It will see how metaphors in pantuns play the role of social critics. Data used for this study is from a book by Tenas Effendy (2004) titled Tunjuk Ajar Dalam Pantun Melayu, published in Yogyakarta by Balai Kajian dan Pengembangan Budaya Melayu. This study will apply the Relevance theory, where this theory emphasises the processing of information and is able to assist readers to understand the metaphorical elements that are scientifically represented. Thus, social criticisms that exist in traditional Malays pantuns are not only for entertainment purposes but also carry a far deeper meaning. Pantuns have metaphorical elements where they are able to create cynical and sharp criticisms.