Journal of Social Humanities and Education: Scripta Humanika
Vol 1 No 4 (2026): May: Jurnal Sosial Humaniora dan Pendidikan: Scripta Humanika

An In-Depth Semantic Analysis of Denotative and Connotative Meaning in the Song Lyrics of ‘Let Her Go’ by Passenger

Yenni Adelina Sinaga (Unknown)
Bernieke Anggita Ristia Damanik (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines the semantic construction of denotative and connotative meanings in the song lyrics of “Let Her Go” by Passenger through a non-empirical qualitative design grounded in Geoffrey Leech’s theory of meaning. The analysis focuses on how literal lexical references and implied emotional significations interact to produce layered interpretations within lyrical discourse. Data were obtained from the complete song lyrics and analyzed through close reading, semantic categorization, and contextual interpretation. The findings reveal that denotative meanings function as structural anchors that provide literal clarity, while connotative meanings dominate the interpretive dimension by expressing emotional experiences such as regret, loneliness, love, and realization. The study further identifies that repetition, symbolism, metaphor, and binary oppositions such as light and darkness significantly contribute to semantic depth and thematic coherence. Interaction between denotative and connotative layers forms a unified interpretive system that enables emotional resonance and narrative progression. The research concludes that semantic analysis is essential in revealing the complex relationship between literal and emotional meanings in song lyrics.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

scripta-humanika

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Social Humanities and Education: Scripta Humanika is a peer-reviewed academic journal that publishes research articles, conceptual papers, and critical reflections in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and education. The journal aims to serve as an academic platform for ...