Invective Strategies in I. Brodsky’s Lyrics in 1964-1965

Abstract

The subject of the research in this paper is the implementation of invective intentions in I. Brodsky’s poetry of period of arrest and exile (1964-1965). Scientific and methodological basis is the works on the analysis of the invective as a literary genre (by S. A. Matyash, A. S. Krakowyak, G. M. Bralina), as well as the works on the functioning of the invective in the speech in general (by O. Demidova, V. Zhelvis, A. Plotnikova, etc.). It is revealed that invective as a literary phenomenon has a specific structure and specific character of existence. Accusatory intentions, on the one hand, are inspired by sociocultural events linked with a conflict situation, and on another hand, by individually author’s vision. The novelty of the research is determined by the choice of artistic material. The complex of Joseph Brodsky’s lyrical texts is analysed. Key communicative strategy is identified which consists in the indirect denunciation of a generalized addressee endowed with the power. The principles of realization of invective intentions are characterized: not a direct confrontation between subject and opponent, but a suggestion of a negative attitude towards the offender by auto-communicative self-deprecating monologue-hint of the true recipient of the conviction. There is no mandatory component of invective - retribution to “offender”. Brodsky refuses to take on the role of the judge, acknowledging only the heavenly court. In the result of the analysis the presence of invective intentions in I. Brodsky’s poetry of specified period is confirmed.