THE COGNITIVE SEMANTIC ANALYSIS OF METAPHORS IN BILLIE EILISH’S ‘BIRDS OF A FEATHER’

Rafi Ahmad  Fauzi; Ahmad  Darajat; Muhammad Khoirul  Mauludi; Tatu Siti  Rohbiah

doi:10.33365/linguistics_and_literature.v6i2.601

Rafi Ahmad Fauzi UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin Banten
Ahmad Darajat UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin Banten
Muhammad Khoirul Mauludi UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin Banten
Tatu Siti Rohbiah UIN Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin Banten

DOI: https://doi.org/10.33365/linguistics_and_literature.v6i2.601

Keywords: Billie Eilish, cognitive semantics, conceptual metaphor, emotional experience, figurative language, song lyrics

Abstract

This study investigates the use of conceptual metaphors in Billie Eilish’s song Birds of a Feather through the lens of cognitive semantics. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, the research identifies, classifies, and interprets metaphorical expressions found in the lyrics. The findings reveal that ontological, orientational, and structural metaphors are used to express deep emotional experiences such as love, loyalty, and existential attachment. These metaphors enable listeners to understand abstract feelings through concrete domains like nature, death, and embodiment. The study concludes that metaphors in song lyrics are not merely stylistic devices but cognitive tools that reflect human conceptualization of emotional life.

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