LANGUAGE, IDENTITY, AND SOCIAL GOVERNANCE IN RICHARD WRIGHT'S AFRICAN AMERICAN LITERATURE: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Richard Wright remains one of the most influential voices in African American literature, whose works critically examine the intersections of race, language, identity, and institutional power within American society. This study investigates the dynamic relationship between language, identity, and social governance in Wright's selected literary works through the theoretical lens of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). It argues that Wright strategically employs language not only as a literary device but also as a powerful means of exposing systemic racism, social exclusion, and unequal power structures that shape the lives of African Americans. Through a close examination of narrative voice, dialogue, symbolism, rhetorical strategies, and discursive patterns, the study demonstrates how linguistic expression contributes to the construction of personal and collective identities while simultaneously challenging dominant social and political ideologies. Furthermore, the research explores how Wright's literary narratives engage with broader issues of democratic participation, citizenship, human rights, equality, and inclusive governance by foregrounding the experiences of historically marginalized communities. Adopting an interdisciplinary framework that integrates African American literary criticism, discourse analysis, and governance studies, the paper highlights the enduring relevance of Wright's writings in addressing contemporary concerns related to social justice, cultural inclusion, and equitable public institutions. The study further contends that literary discourse can serve as an important medium for understanding the relationship between language and governance, offering valuable insights into policy discussions concerning diversity, social cohesion, and participatory democracy. By bridging literary scholarship with governance perspectives, this research contributes to the expanding interdisciplinary dialogue on language, identity, and social transformation, while reaffirming Richard Wright's enduring significance in contemporary literary and socio-political studies.