A Lexical-Semantic Study of Change in Energy and Climate Terminology in Niyi Osundare’s they too are the Earth and Earthwatch

Abstract

In recent time, the rate at which scholars show interest in climate change and energy transition related discourse has been on increase especially in the aspect of lexical and semantic shifts, reflecting evolving societal, scientific, and political priorities. This study examines both the semantic and lexical dynamics of energy and climate-related terminologies in two of Niyi Osundare’s poems: They Too Are the Earth and Earthwatch. From the lens of Halliday’s transitivity framework, the study investigates how Osundare’s lexical choices enhance the transformation of environmental and energy discourses over time, emphasizing humanity’s relationship with nature and energy resources. It employs a qualitative lexical-semantic analysis, combining close reading of the poems with corpus linguistic methods. Significant devices are identified and analysed in line with their denotative and connotative meanings, considering their alignment with
broader historical shifts in energy and climate narratives. Findings reveal that Osundare captures the interplay between destructive energy practices and the potential for sustainable alternatives. The poet tactically critiques humanity’s exploitation of natural resources in they too are the Earth while emphasis is placed on ecological imbalance and the urgent need for corrective action in Earthwatch. The study also exemplifies Osundare’s creative use of metaphor and imagery by linking scientific discourse with poetic expression and enabling a broader cultural resonance of issues in energy and climate. The study submits that Osundare’s work not only reflects but also anticipates shifts in energy and climate discourses. This makes its poetic language to be relevant as a critical medium for reviewing ecological and energy concerns, advocating for sustainable coexistence with nature. This research contributes to the understanding of how literature demonstrates and shapes public awareness and consciousness on global environmental challenges.