Exploring Sentence Structure, Rhythm, and Storytelling in Dialectal Writing: A Case Study of the Shanghai Dialect Novel Fanhua 繁花

Abstract

Fanhua (繁花), written in Shanghainese, is set against the backdrop of over 30 years of promoting Putonghua in mainland China. Since its 2013 publication, it has sparked significant academic discussion (e.g., Mao 2018; Liu 2019; Yu 2024). However, most research emphasizes its literary significance rather than its linguistic contributions. This study examines Shanghainese’s role in the novel, focusing on its influence on sentence structure, rhythm, and narrative style. A comparative analysis of the single-volume edition and the original serialized online version reveals the author’s meticulous crafting of dialectal features. Key elements include the sentence-final particle “吧” (ba), four-character expressions, and a strong sense of rhyme, all contributing to the novel’s unique identity. The language in Fanhua is characterized by short, fragmented colloquial phrases, rhythmic patterns dominated by four-character structures, and stylistic elements aligned with Huabenti (话本体storytelling tradition). These features shape the narrative’s linguistic rhythm and deepen its connection to Shanghainese oral traditions. By integrating sentence structure, rhythm, and traditional storytelling techniques, this study highlights how Fanhua redefines the dialectal novel, showcasing Shanghainese as an integral component of its creative and cultural identity. This perspective underscores the linguistic richness of the text and its contribution to understanding dialectal innovation in contemporary Chinese literature