A linguistic study on political writing style of Ho Chi Minh

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the distinctive features in President Ho Chi Minh's political writing style. Three representative works - The French Colonial Regime on Trial, Declaration of Independence, and Travel Notes - were selected for qualitative analysis based on genre theory, dialogism, and linguistic appraisal theory. The analysis focused on linguistic features including lexical choice, syntax, and pragmatics, combined with comparative analysis. Research findings reveal the intricate fusion of sharp political argumentation and refined linguistic artistry in Ho Chi Minh's writing style through: integration of political and colloquial vocabulary, diverse sentence structures creating rhetorical effects, and skillful incorporation of folk elements into political language. His style demonstrates a harmonious blend of scholarly and popular accessibility through reader dialogue and role-reversal techniques characteristic of carnival style. As a result, his political ideas were not only accessible to the public while maintaining academic rigor, but also enhanced the effectiveness of revolutionary propaganda.