Linguistic Deviation and Narrative Style in Isaac Asimov’s True Love: A Stylistic Analysis

Abstract

Stylistic analysis in literary studies talks about how language shapes character, narrative voice, and thematic meaning, particularly in science fiction, where authors often explore the boundaries between human and artificial consciousness. A significant number of studies are available on stylistic analysis and literary studies but limited research is available on the stylistic analysis of a short story by Isaac Asimov. The current study aims to explore linguistic deviation and narrative style in Isaac Asimov’s True Love. The study highlights that Asimov masterfully employs linguistic deviance to provide Joe with a clear and unique voice. Characterized by mechanical tone, repetitive grammar, and technical jargon, indicates that Joe's speech is his programming. Moreover, the research discovered that semantic and dialogic deviance serve to reinforce the core irony of the story. Terms such as "true love" and "ideal" become emotionless and are redefined within data logic. The humor of the tale is taciturn and satirical, also serving to reveal human shortcomings, especially the idea that love can be designed through reason-based selection. Graphological, orthographic simplicity, and narrative compression also have their quiet but significant contributions.