The value of the Referential expressions "Kì vật", "Kì tài”, "Kì nhân” in the short story collection Vang bong mot thoi by Nguyen Tuan

Abstract

This article employs the Reference Theory of Pragmatics to examine the referential expressions "kì vật," "kì tài" – "kì nhân" in the short story collection "Vang Bóng Một Thời" by the renowned author Nguyễn Tuân. The study reveals that the collection features 293 referential expressions, classified into three main types: proper name reference, descriptive reference, and pronominal reference. Through the analysis, it becomes evident that Nguyễn Tuân employed a wide array of referential methods, utilizing a rich and novel lexicon to encapsulate both explicit and implicit meanings, elegantly conveyed by the author. These referential expressions vividly revive the cultural essence of a bygone era, portraying it from various perspectives and constructing a world of ideal beauty, filled with nostalgia for the lost elegance and refinement of the past. Furthermore, these expressions reflect Nguyễn Tuân’s masterful and unique linguistic style, showcasing his exceptional talent in language use.