Multi-modal Metaphorical Analysis of Children’s Picturebook <i>Little Stone Lion</i>

Abstract

Little Stone Lion stands out as a member of Xiong Liang's "Chinese Illustrated Book" series. This work tells the story from the perspective of the stone lion at the bridgehead of the town, recounting its observations, experiences, and feelings. This book integrates traditional Chinese ink painting techniques with cultural elements, presenting a Chinese-style visual creation. Drawing upon a qualitative research approach, the study employed a comprehensive analysis of Little Stone lion, focusing on identifying and interpreting the verbal, pictorial, and multimodal metaphors employed in the illustrations and their relation to the accompanying text. The study delved into the interplay between visual and textual elements, examining how they contribute to the creation of metaphoric meaning and literary depth in the picturebook. This research sought to uncover metaphorical meanings derived from the situational and conceptual-cognitive contexts as well as the underlying thematic and emotional layers embedded within the picturebook. As the only guardian deity of the town, the little stone lion has witnessed the growth and departures of countless generations, silently guarding this land and its people. Multimodal metaphors identified from camera angles, colors, and its plain monologue are enough to touch the heartstrings and evoke a deep sense of nostalgia for one's hometown and loved ones.