A LEXICO-PRAGMATIC ANALYSIS OF THE GHANAIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM

Abstract

This paper analyzed Ghana national anthem. The study adopted an explicit content analytical method which involves a qualitative method of data presentation and analysis. With insights from Blutner’s (1998) Lexico-Pragmatic theory and Austin’s (1962) & Searle’s (1969) Speech Act Theory, this study examined the language of the national anthem of Ghana and points out the inherent pragmatic connotations of the lexical items.  The analysis revealed several pragmatic implications of the words used in the anthem which can only be interpreted in the Ghanaian context. It is hoped that the findings of this study will draw attention of all Ghanaians to the wordings of the national anthem and encourage them to see the need to develop positive attitude towards Ghana in order to enhance Ghana’s national development/growth.