A Socio-pragmatic Study of Suicide in Eto Mori’s Colorful

Abstract

This study offers a socio-pragmatic analysis of suicide as depicted in the Japanese novelist Eto Mori’s Colorful, aiming to present a nuanced understanding of its causes and its impact on individuals and their social relationships. While previous studies have extensively explored adolescent suicide in literature from psychological and sociological perspectives, linguistic approaches to this theme remain relatively underexamined. Addressing this gap, the present study adopts Milroy and Gordon’s Social Network Theory (2003) and Brown and Levinson’s Politeness Theory (1987) within a qualitative textual analysis framework. The analysis centers on three key narrative domains: familial dynamics, educational settings, and spiritual guidance. Findings indicate that dense social networks can restrict opportunities for open communication, emotional validation, and support, thereby reinforcing feelings of isolation and helplessness. Furthermore, the novel conveys two critical insights relevant to adolescent experiences: first, it frames suicide as a grave and irreversible act, underscoring its profound consequences; second, it highlights the impermanence and unpredictability of life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hope in the face of adversity.