Voices of Nature: An Ecolinguistic Exploration of Human–Environment Interaction in Prodigal Summer

Abstract

This study seeks to explore how language is used to create and convey connections between people and their environments in Barbara Kingsolver's Prodigal Summer. Through an investigation into the lexical choice, structural and discursively strategic forms employed by Kingsolver in her novel, we seek to understand the ideological perspectives toward nature, diversity (biodiversity) and sustainable practices reflected through Kingsolver's Prodigal Summer. Using Stibbe's model, we identify commonalities in language use in relation to three primary aspects: representation of seasonal and ecological cycle(s), the interconnectedness of human(s) and wildlife and the symbolic representation of Appalachian landscape(s). Our results demonstrate that Kingsolver uses language in such a way that encourages readers to see nature as an active, morally responsible entity rather than merely a resource for humans. We also found that Kingsolver employs metaphorical and semantic field strategies in addition to her narrative voice in order to raise ecological consciousness among her audience. Additionally, our findings illustrate that Prodigal Summer serves as an example of how literary works can critically educate audiences about ecological ethics. Ultimately, this study illustrates that by framing human/environment interactions within linguistic systems, it supports the value placed on discourse as a means of increasing awareness and encouraging both personal and collective responsibility toward the natural world.