Analysis of Data

B. Analysis of Data

This subchapter contains the analysis of type of topic of compliment. In analyzing the data, Wolfson‟s classification of topic of compliment is used to

classify the types of topic of compliment expressed by the characters in the novel. It is also describes the analysis of Politeness Principle which is applied in the compliment expressions.

1. Topic of Appearance

a. Personal Appearance

Data 2 The conversation happens in Kennedy‟s house. Holly and Ciara are sisters; they don‟t meet each other for long time because Ciara lives in Australia. When Ciara comes home, the whole family gathers in their house.

„Hi, Ciara.‟ Holly approached her sister, who jumped up and gave her a

big hug, squeezing Holly a bit tighter than usual. ‘Nice Hair.’

„You like it?‟ „Yeah, pink is really your colour.‟ Ciara looked satisfied. „That‟s what I tried to tell them,‟ she said, squinting

at Richard and Meredith. „So how‟s my big sis?‟ Ciara asked softly, rubbing Holly‟s arm affectionately.

When Holly sees Ciara for the first time, there is something that makes Holly interested, she looks at Ciara‟s pink hair and then she spontaneously delivers a compl iment to Ciara‟s new hair style. Holly directly says “Nice hair” to Ciara, she knows that her sister is an eccentric girl, who always wants to be up-to- date and looks different from others. Before having pink hair, Ciara had ever dyed her hair with blue color. Unlike her brother Richard and his wife Meredith, Holly can understand Ciara so that it is not a big deal for her to see Ciara‟s pink hair. In this case, the compliment has the topic of appearance, especially personal appearance because the compliment is intended to Ciara‟s new appearance. Besides, the compl iment functions as a spontaneous expression on Ciara‟s appearance.

Holly employs the approbation maxim in the utterances above since she maximizes the compliment to Ciara. She chooses a positive adjective (nice) to express her positive intention. Moreover, the utterance “Yeah, pink is really your colour” means that Holly‟s compliment is appropriate with the condition that the color „pink‟ is match with her sister.

As the addressee, Ciara gives a verbal response to the compliments. The first response “You like it?” disobeys the maxim of modesty because the utterance

indicates that Ciara wants to say that her hair is really nice; it shows that she

pink hair is good on her, she says “That‟s what I tried to tell them” in this utterance, Ciara also gives maximal praise to herself again. She feels confident to tell Richard and Meredith about her appearance. Ciara breaks the modesty maxim because this maxim requires the speaker to minimize praise of self and to maximize dispraise of self. In contrast, Ciara does not maximize the dispraise of herself but she maximizes the praise of herself. She tries to say to Richard and Meredith that she has nice pink hair. She does it because she knows that Richard and Meredith are a kind of old-fashioned people. They have very different point of view about hair style and fashion. Ciara wants to open their mind and convince them that having pink hair is not something weird. It is nice as long as it is match with her. Moreover, Ciara is still young and she likes to up date her style.

Data 14 After having the job interview, Holly decides to go to Hogan‟s pub. She wants

to have lunch and also to meet Ciara who works there. The pub is packed with people dressed smartly on their lunch breaks from work. Holly finds a small table in the corner and settles down. Holly also meet his friend, Daniel, who is also the owner of the pub and the have a chat there.

‘You are looking very smart today,‟ Daniel said, studying her outfit. „Yes, that was the impression I was trying to give. I was just at a job interview,‟ Holly said, and winced at the thought of it.

Holly looks different because she seldom dresses formally. The jacket is long and goes to just above her knees and it is fastened tightly by one button at the waist. The trousers are just the right fit and fall perfectly over her boots. The outfit Holly looks different because she seldom dresses formally. The jacket is long and goes to just above her knees and it is fastened tightly by one button at the waist. The trousers are just the right fit and fall perfectly over her boots. The outfit

saying that Holly looks very smart. Since the complimented object is Holly‟s appearance, it can be concluded that this compliment has the topic of appearance, especially personal appearance.

Daniel‟s utterance obeys the approbation maxim where he maximizes the praise to Holly and says something that makes her pleased. They have close relationship and in this case Daniel‟s compliment can be one of polite ways to maintain their relationship.

As the addressee, Holly gives response to the compliment by saying „Yes, that was the impression I was trying to give. I was just at a job interview. ‟ It obeys the maxim of agreement because the response shows that Holly agrees with Daniel. She realizes that she looks different than usual because she has a job interview. Holly tries to give her best impression in the interview.

Data 17 Still in the bar, the conversation below is between Holly and Steve. After introducing himself to Holly, Steve tries to break the ice by offering her a drink. „Can I buy you a drink, Holly?‟ Steve asked smoothly.

„No thanks, I have one here.‟ She sipped on her water again. „OK, well, I‟m just going to bring these drinks down to my table and then I’ll be back to buy the lovely Holly a drink.’ He smiled at her creepily as

he walked away.

It is not enough for Steve just knowing the name of a beautiful lady beside

Since Holly says nothing after mentioning her name, Steve tries to break the ice by offering Holly to have a drink. It succeeds to make Holly speaks up because somehow Holly has to answer to Steve‟s offer. Apparently, Holly refuses the drink from Steve because she still has her own drink. She says no and says thank you to Steve for offering her the drink. Steve does not give up; he says „I‟ll be back to buy the lovely Holly a drink‟. In this utterance, it can be seen that Steve gives compliment to Holly when he forces himself to buy her a drink. The word „lovely‟ is used to show his admiration to Holly. Holly is a lovely woman and that is why he wants to know her.

The compliment above has the topic of personal appearance because Steve says that Holly is lovely. It means that she is a beautiful woman; and he admires her. It can be seen when Steve forces himself to bring Holly the drink although Holly already refuses it. By doing this, he wants to show that he really likes her

In this compliment, Steve employs generosity maxim when he delivers the compliment. The utteran ce „I‟ll be back to buy the lovely Holly a drink‟ shows that Steve will be someone who bear the cost by buying the drink for Holly. Therefore, it can be indicated into generosity maxim since the speaker, Steve minimizes the benefit and maximizes the cost of himself.

Data 18 The conversation below is between Holly and Daniel. Daniel, John and Sharon come to Holly‟s house to pick her up to attend the Christmas Ball. Sharon Data 18 The conversation below is between Holly and Daniel. Daniel, John and Sharon come to Holly‟s house to pick her up to attend the Christmas Ball. Sharon

„Wow!’ Daniel said, his mouth dropping open. ‘You look fabulous, Holly .‟ „I look like -,‟ Holly started to grumble and Sharon shot her a look. „But, thanks,‟ she quickly added.

Actually, Holly prefers to stay at home rather than go to the Ball which is held annually in the end of November because she wants to open Gerry‟s last message. But she remembers Gerry‟s message “Cinderella must go to the ball this

month. And she will look glamorous and beautiful and have the time of her life just like always…But no white dresses this year…P.S I Love You” it gives her

spirit to go. Then, Holly decides to go to the ball with her friends. Holly does what Gerry has told her that she should not wear white dress but she wears a simple black halter-neck dress, with a split to the thigh up the middle.

Daniel is surprised to see how Holly is beautiful in her simple black dress. As someone having close relationship to Holly, Daniel gives a compliment to show his admiration on Holly‟s appearance by saying „Wow, you look fabulous, Holly‟. Daniel never sees Holly in her gown before and it is surprised him much to see her looks very beautiful and different. Therefore, it can be categorized that the compliment has the topic of personal appearance because Daniel gives a compliment based on Holly‟s appearance.

The approbation maxim is employed in the utterance because Daniel, as the speaker maximizes the praise to Holly. His simple word „Wow‟ and his facial The approbation maxim is employed in the utterance because Daniel, as the speaker maximizes the praise to Holly. His simple word „Wow‟ and his facial

contrasts with the compliment. She does not continue her response „I look like -,‟ because Sharon shoots a look at her and then Holly says „Thanks‟. Saying „Thank You‟ can be identified as the way to show politeness.

Data 19 In the Christmas ball, Holly meets many people; and the conversation below takes place in the bar between Holly and Patrick. Patrick is a large businessman who sponsors the charity and one of the successful businessmen in Ireland.

‘You’re looking as lovely as always.‟ He gave her a kiss on the cheek. „Can I get you a drink?‟ he asked, holding his hand up to attract the barman‟s attention. „Oh, no, thanks,‟ she smiled. „Ah, let me,‟ he said, taking his bulging wallet out of his pocket. What‟ll you have?‟ Holly gave in. „A white wine then, please, if you insist,‟ she smiled.

Holly does not know Patrick very well; he is just one of the people she knows from being at the ball every year. Patrick greets Holly when he meets her in the bar. He also gives her a kiss on the cheek and says that Holly looks as lovely as always. He gives a compliment based on Holly‟s appearance. The utterance “You‟re looking as lovely as always” shows how Patrick is amazed with Holly‟s appearance that‟s why he shows his admiration by giving her a Holly does not know Patrick very well; he is just one of the people she knows from being at the ball every year. Patrick greets Holly when he meets her in the bar. He also gives her a kiss on the cheek and says that Holly looks as lovely as always. He gives a compliment based on Holly‟s appearance. The utterance “You‟re looking as lovely as always” shows how Patrick is amazed with Holly‟s appearance that‟s why he shows his admiration by giving her a

As the addressee, Holly does not respond to the compliment but she just respon d to Patrick‟s offering for getting her a drink. She responds it in polite way by saying „Oh no, thank‟ and smile to him.

b. Possession

Data 4 The conversation happens in Holly‟s house. Ciara, Sharon, Denise, Abbey and Declan come to Holly‟s house to celebrate Holly‟s 30 th birthday party. Actually, this is a „girls only‟ party but Declan joins them because he wants to make a documentary of Holly‟s party. It is a special day for Holly, the girls ask Holly to wear a tiara because she will be the princess for the night. They help Holly to put on the sparkling tiara that goes perfectly with her glittery corset. Surrounded by her friends, Holly really feels like a princess. They give presents for Holly, open the champagne and make a toast for her.

„Well, I would worry if Jack gave me something like that,‟ Holly said, opening it. „Oh, Abbey, it’s beautiful!‟ Holly said, holding up the sterling silver-covered photo album.

„For your new memories,‟ Abbey said softly. „Oh, it’s perfect,‟ Holly said, wrapping her arms round her and

squeezing her. „Thank you.‟

Everyone wants her presents to be the first opened by Holly. It is because they already prepare the best present for her. Holly decides to open Ciara‟s present first. All of them laugh when they know that Ciara gives Holly a vibrator. Holly does not give any compliment to Ciara. Then, Holly opens Abbey‟s present.

Abbey gives her a sterling silver-covered photo album to her. Of course, Holly loves it, and to show her appreciation to Abbey she compliment her by saying “Oh, Abbey, it‟s beautiful!”. The word „beautiful‟ refers to the gift and it indicates that the compliment has topic of appearance, the photo album from Abbey is beautiful because it is covered by sterling silver so that Holly says that the photo album from Abbey is beautiful one. By this compliment Holly wants to show her respect to Abbey for what she has already done for her. Besides, Holly gives Abbey a compliment again by saying “It‟s perfect”. It shows that Holly, once again, really appreciates her and she wants to thank her. When Holly says the second compliment, it is followed by the word „Thank You‟. It shows that in this

case, the compliment functions to replace the speech act of thanking. According to Leech‟s politeness principles, the compliments above in line

with the maxim of approbation in which Holly, as the speaker says something that makes the addressee feel pleased. Meanwhile, the responses given by Abbey obey the tact maxim since she maximizes the benefit to Holly. Actually when Abbey says „For your new memories‟, she wants to ask Holly to forget her past and her sadness because of Gerry‟s death. Abbey wants Holly to open her new life again.

Of course, it will be something useful for Holly and she won‟t bear any cost because of Abbey‟s request.

Data 5 This is the conversation between Holly and her brother, Jack, on the

phone. Jack rings Holly to ask her condition after the girls‟ party on her birthday. „Or maybe it‟s just an evil plan you all hatched so you wouldn‟t have to

tell us what you got up to.‟ „I wish it was… Oh, thanks for the pressie by the way, it’s beautiful.‟ „Glad you like it. It took me ages to find the right one.‟ „Liar‟

One day after the girls celebrated Holly‟s birthday, Jack calls Holly to ask whether she is OK. Jack is curious to know about Holly‟s condition because

Abbey, his girlfriend who also joins the party, is still suffering because of the alcohol she drank in the party. Apparently, after they had a toast in Holly‟s house, they continued the party at Dublin‟s most stylish club, Boudoir. They consumed

too much alcoholic beverage and it made them drunk. Holly feels better when jack calls her because she already spends the days for sleeping.

In the middle of the conversation, Holly thanks her brother for the birthday present. She also gives the compliment that the present is beautiful one. Actually, the present from Jack is the present given to Holly by Abbey. Jack and Abbey are lovers so both of them give the sterling silver covered photo album to Holly. Holly loves the present because the photo album having sterling silver cover looks very nice and beautiful so that she thanks Jack for the present and gives a compliment by saying that the present is beautiful. The topic of the compliment is In the middle of the conversation, Holly thanks her brother for the birthday present. She also gives the compliment that the present is beautiful one. Actually, the present from Jack is the present given to Holly by Abbey. Jack and Abbey are lovers so both of them give the sterling silver covered photo album to Holly. Holly loves the present because the photo album having sterling silver cover looks very nice and beautiful so that she thanks Jack for the present and gives a compliment by saying that the present is beautiful. The topic of the compliment is

In responding to the compliment, Jack says „Glad you like it. It took me ages to find the right one.‟ It shows his agreement to Holly that the present is really good one. Jack is happy to know Holly loves the present from him. He makes joke that he needs extra time to find the right present from her. Therefore, Jack‟s response can be indicated that it obeys the maxim of agreement. Data 8

Holly goes for a stroll in the park which is not far from her house. She accidentally, meets Richards and his two children, Timmy and Emily in the park by chance. Then, they have conversation there.

„I brought the children to see Grandma and Granddad didn‟t I? he said, ruffling Timmy‟s head. „And we had McDonald‟s,‟ Timmy said excitedly, and Emily cheered. „Oh, yummy!‟ Holly said, licking her lips. „You lucky things. Isn’t your

daddy the best?’

Richard looked pleased.

It is not familiar sight for Holly to see her brother with her niece and nephew having fun in the park. It is just because the park is too far from their house. Holly greets them and the kids give her a big hug. Holly asks Richard what makes him bring his children to the park. Then, Richard explains that actually he It is not familiar sight for Holly to see her brother with her niece and nephew having fun in the park. It is just because the park is too far from their house. Holly greets them and the kids give her a big hug. Holly asks Richard what makes him bring his children to the park. Then, Richard explains that actually he

H aving heard her nephew‟s answer Holly says that he is so lucky to have a very kind father like Richard. Holly delivers a compliment by saying „You lucky things. Isn‟t your daddy the best?‟ She says to the kids that their father is the best father. Not only brings the kids to see their grandparents, Richard also shows his love to the kids by bringing them to play in the park and to McDonald‟s. Holly gives the compliment to show her nephew and niece how lucky they are to have a father like Richard. She also wants to show her appreciation to Richard. She never thinks that her brother can be a nice father for the children. Since Holly says the compliment to Timmy, the topic of the compliment can be identified to the topic of possession. The word your indicates t hat it deals with Timmy‟s possession.

Politeness also must be shown to the third side, either presented or not. In this case, Holly obeys the politeness principle by giving compliment to Timmy about Richard as the third side in her conversation with Timmy . Holly‟s compliment applies the approbation maxim since she maximizes her praise to Timmy by saying positive thing about his father and it is pleased for Timmy. Holly says that Richard is the best father and Timmy is Lucky to have him. Besides, by the compliment Holly also shows her respect to Richard for what he already done to his children.

Data 10

The conversation occurs in Holly‟s house. Holly calls her two best friends, Sharon and Denise to come to her house because she wants to tell something rela tes to Gerry‟s fifth letter. They gather in the living room and talk about the letter.

„Girls,‟ she said with a smile beginning to spread across her face, „he bought us a holyday!‟ The girls opened a bottle of wine and squealed with excitement.

‘Oh, this is incredible,‟ Denise said after the news had sunk in. ‘Gerry’s such a sweetie.’

Holly nodded, feeling proud of her husband, who had once again managed to surprise them all. „So you went down to see this Barbara person?‟ Sharon asked. „Yes and she was the sweetest girl,‟ Holly smiled. „She sat with me for

ages telling me about the conversation they had that day. He went in at the end of November.

When Holly opens Gerry‟s fifth letter, she finds a holiday brochure and it is also written on it the word: „Swords Travel Agent. Attn: Barbara‟. Holly is very

curious to find out about this puzzle. She goes to the travel agent to meet Barbara and asks her to explain about the holiday brochure. Then, Barbara tells Holly that last November Gerry came to her office to book a holiday for Holly. Gerry wanted to give Holly surprise and he asked Barbara not to let Holly know.

Feeling sure that she really will have a holiday with her friends, Holly asks them to come to her house. She wants to tell Sharon and Denise that Gerry booked them a holiday to Lazaronte Spain. The girls are very happy to hear the news. They open a bottle of wine to celebrate it. Then, Denise says „Oh, this is incredible. Gerry‟s such a sweetie.‟

She obeys the approbation maxim where she gives maximal compliment to Gerry She obeys the approbation maxim where she gives maximal compliment to Gerry

Holly gives non verbal response to the compliment by nodding her head. It indicates that the response already apply the maxim of agreement. By nodding her head, Holly shows that she agrees with Denise compliment that Gerry was really a sweet person. He was a very nice and lovely husband.

Data 13 Holly goes to Chris‟s office to have a job interview. Chris is the director of “X” Magazine. It is the first time for them to meet each other. „Wow, is that your garden?‟ Holly asked wide-eyed. „It’s beautiful; I

presumed it was the Botanical Gardens or somewhere like that.’

„That was Maureen‟s specialty. You can‟t get me out of the office long enough to sort through that mess.‟

Before they talk more about the job, Holly and Chris have a small talk in order to make the situation relaxed. While talking with Chris, Holly looks at a photograph on Chris‟s table. In the photograph, Holly sees three girls sitting down in a garden. Apparently, the girls are Chris‟s daughters.

Seeing the garden, Holly is impressed and gives compliment to Chris. She says that the garden is beautiful and she supposes that it is a botanical garden.

This compliment has topic of appearance deals with material possession because the complimented subject is Chris‟s material possession.

Holly maximizes the compliment to Chris because she thinks that her garden at home is nothing compare with one she sees in the photograph. She says „It‟s beautiful; I presumed it was the Botanical Gardens or somewhere like that‟, it shows that Holly is really impressed with the condition of Chris‟s garden that almost the same with a botanical garden. Since Holly gives maximal praise to Chris so it can be categorized that the compliment above in line with the use of approbation maxim. Holly wants to show her politeness by giving compliment to Chris who has higher social status as he is a director and Holly as the interviewee. Since it is for the first time for them to meet, the compliment has function to create a relationship between one another.

Chris‟s response shows that he obeys the modesty maxim. He minimizes the praise of himself. He says that he does not do anything on his garden but his late wife working on it. His wife, Maureen, could make the beautiful garden because it was her specialty that‟s why it was not something difficult for her to do. Chris does not have much time to take care of the garden.

Data 16 Holly attends Denise‟s hen party in a hotel in Galway. The girls are tired

after having the party, while the others already leave the bar; Holly stays there to after having the party, while the others already leave the bar; Holly stays there to

„I‟m Steve,‟ he said, holding out his hand to her. „I‟m Holly,‟ she mumbled and took his hand lightly, not wanting to be overly rude. ‘Holly, that’s a lovely name.‟ He held her hand for mush too long and

Holly was forced to look up. He had big blue sparkly eyes. „Eh . . . thanks,‟ she said, embarrassed by his compliment, and her face

flushed.

The conversation above happens in the bar between Holly and Steve. Steve goes to the counter to get some drinks. He sits beside Holly and introduces himself to her. When Holly mentions her name, Steve says that it is a lovely name. There is a social distance between the participants and it regards to be polite for Steve to deliver a compliment to create a relationship with Holly because it is for the very first time they meet each other. Since the subject complimented is the name of Holly, it can be classified into the topic of appearance, especially possession. When Steve introduces himself to Holly, it can be seen that Steve is interested to Holly and he wants to know her. In the utterance „Holly, that‟s a lovely name‟, Steve wants to show that he is interested to Holly by giving her compliment. This compliment obeys the approbation maxim where Steve as the speaker maximizes her praise to Holly by saying something pleased. He says that „Holly‟ is a lovely name. Holly‟s face flushes because she can not hide her embarrassment of hearing the compliment. She just says “thanks” to show her politeness in responding the compliment.

a. General Ability

Data 1 The conversation happens in Holly‟s house between Sharon and Holly. They have close r elationship since they are good friends. Sharon comes to Holly‟s house; she wants to see her condition because it is almost a month for them do not meet each other after Gerry‟s funeral.

„There‟s a few biscuits there to go with your tea. Jammie Dodgers, your favorite.‟ „Oh, Sharon,‟she wailed, thank you so much. You’ve been so good to me and I’ve been such a horrible, horrible bitch of a friend.’ She sat at the table and grabbed Sharon‟s hand. „I don‟t know what I‟d do without you.‟

„Thanks‟ „I‟m your best friend, Hol; if I don‟t help you then who will?‟ Sharon

said, squeezing her hand and giving her an encouraging smile.

Sharon realizes that it must be hard for Holly to face her new life alone without her husband besides her anymore. Gerry, Holly‟s husband, is passed away because of brain tumor a month ago. Sharon visits Holly to see her condition and to give her support. When Sharon arrives at Holly‟s house, she is surprised to look Holly‟s condition. Holly still mourns; she looks horrible and losses her weight. Sharon brings some food, vegetables, fruit and milk for Holly. Then, she asks Holly to take a bath and they will have fun all day because Sharon wants to make Holly smile again and forget her sadness. While Holly is bathing, Sharon cleans Holly‟s house. She opens all the windows downstairs. She tidies and polishes, vacuums and sprays air freshener in every room. She also cleans Holly‟s kitchen and scrubs the hob.

Holly cannot believe that Sharon will do this for her. Moreover, Sharon already pre pares a cup of tea and Holly‟s favorite biscuit „Jammie Dodgers‟. Holly thinks that Sharon is very kind and it also proves that she is really her best friend. Then, Holly gives compliment to Sharon for what she has done and for being so good to her. Therefore, it can be concluded that the compliment has topic of general ability where Holly compliments Sharon personal quality as a very kind, caring and helpful friend. Sharon already does many good things that make Holly proud of her.

Based on Leech‟s politeness principle, Holly obeys the approbation maxim in her compliment because she, as the speaker, gives maximal praise to the addressee, Sharon and maximizes the dispraise to herself by saying „You‟ve been so good to me and I‟ve been such a horrible, horrible bitch of a friend‟. She says that Sharon is a good friend, and in contrast she states that she, herself is a horrible friend.

On the other hand, Sharon breaks the approbation maxim in responding to the compliment. Approbation maxim requires the speaker to give maximal praise to other but in the utterance „I‟m your best friend, Hol; if I don‟t help you then who will?‟ , it can be seen that Sharon maximizes the praise of herself. She states that she is the best friend of Holly and she is the only one who is able to help and who will help Holly when she gets problems. It is regards to be impolite to give praise to our self.

Data 3

The conversation happens in Holly‟s house. Ciara, Sharon, Denise, Abbey and Declan come to Holly‟s house to celebrate Holly‟s 30 th birthday party.

Actually, this is a „girls only‟ party but Declan joins them because he wants to make a documentary of Holly‟s party. It is a special day for Holly, the girls ask

Holly to wear a tiara because she will be the princess for the night. They help Holly to put on the sparkling tiara that goes perfectly with her glittery corset. Surrounded by her friends, Holly really feels like a princess. They give presents for Holly, open the champagne and make a toast for her.

„OK, now open my present,‟ Ciara screamed again. „Ciara!‟ they all shouted. „After the toast,‟ added Sharon.

Everyone held up the glass

‘OK, here’s to my bestest friend in the whole world who has such a difficult year, but throughout all has been the bravest and the

strongest pers on I’ve ever met. She’s an inspiration to us all. Here‟s to her finding happiness for the next thirty year of her life! To Holly!‟

„To Holly,‟ they all chorused

The girls cheer and enjoy the party. Ciara wants Holly to open her present but Sharon says that the presents will be opened after they have a toast. In her utterance, Sharon gives Holly compliment. She says that Holly is the bravest and the strongest person. Holly becomes an inspiration for them because of her struggle in her life. Holly succeeds to fight the difficulties she found in her life

since Gerry‟s death. Sharon hopes that Holly‟s thirtieth birthday will be a new start to Holly to start her new life and to find her happiness. It can be identified

that the compliment has topic of general ability because Sharon gives a compliment based on Holly‟s personal quality; Holly is a brave and strong person that the compliment has topic of general ability because Sharon gives a compliment based on Holly‟s personal quality; Holly is a brave and strong person

In the compliment above it can be seen that Sharon already gives her maximal praise to Holly by saying that Holly is the bravest and the strongest person she has ever met. Sharon knows Holly‟s struggle in her life and it is not easy for Holly to face her life, that‟s why she gives the compliment to show her admiration to Holly‟s struggle. Thus, it can be said that the compliment obey the

approbation maxim because Sharon, as the speaker maximizes the praise to Holly, as the addressee. Data 9

The conversation occurs in a travel agent. The participants are Gerry and one of the travel agent‟s employees, Barbara. Gerry goes to the travel agent to

books a holiday package for Holly and her friends. Those brown eyes looked sad. Barbara cleared her throat nervously, „Well,

that’s very thoughtful of you, sir.‟ „Could I have their names then, please?‟ She finished taking his details and he settled the bill. She began to print

the arrangements from the computer to give to him. „Oh, do you mind if I leave the details here with you? I want to surprise

my wife and I would be afraid of leaving papers around the house in case she finds them.‟

During his sickness, Gerry who should stay at home to have bed rest goes to the travel agent alone. Gerry says to Barbara that he wants to book a holiday and he asks Barbara to help him choose the place. It is different because usually Barbara must explain the brochures to the customer one by one. She also tries to persuade the customer to go to a certain place. But Gerry doesn‟t care about the

brochure at all. He says that he wants to go to Lazaronte, Spain, and it makes

Barbara easier to do her job since Gerry already decides the place. Barbara says that it is a good choice to have a summer holiday at Lazaronte.

When Barbara asks the name and the address, Gerry says that the holiday is not for him but he books it as a surprise for his wife and his wife‟s friends. Hearing Gerry‟s answer Barbara spontaneously give compliment to Gerry by

saying “Well, that‟s very thoughtful of you, sir”. Barbara wants to say that Gerry is a very kind person; it is wonderful thing to have such kind of surprise. What a lucky wife Gerry has. It can be seen that Gerry has such nice personal quality. He prepares surprise for his wife; he wants his wife have fun with her friends by buying them the holiday package. From the explanation, it can be concluded that the compliment has topic of general ability, especially deals with the personal quality.

This compliment obeys the politeness principle which deals with approbation maxim where Barbara says how Gerry is a thoughtful man. It gives maximize praise to the addressee. Barbara maximizes the praise to Gerry because of his kindness. She thinks that Gerry is a thoughtful man because he prepares a surprise for his wife by giving the holiday package.

Gerry gives no response to Barbara‟s compliment. He only pays attention on her question about the names that will be listed on the holiday. Gerry asks Barbara to keep the details in her office because he is afraid that Holly will find it if he brings the details with him. The utterance “Oh, do you mind if I leave the details here with you?” shows that Gerry uses indirectness strategy when asking

Barbara to keep the details. The indirectness shows Gerry politeness to Barbara.

Data 11 The conversation happens between Holly and Daniel. Daniel comes to

Kennedy‟s house because he is invited by Holly to join her sister‟s party. Actually, Holly invites him because Ciara wants him to come. Ciara doesn‟t ask Daniel by herself because he is Holly‟s friend so she asks Holly to invite him for her. Ciara holds a barbeque party to celebrate her birthday. They have the party in the back yard of Kennedy‟s house.

„By the way, Daniel,‟ she lowered her voice to a hushed tone and he moved his head closer, „I just wanted to thank you so much for looking out for me

the way you did after the documentary. Most men run a mile when they see a girl cry; you didn‟t, so thank you.‟ Holly smiled gratefully.

„No problem at all, Holly. I don‟t like to see you upset.‟ Daniel returned to smile.

„You’re a good friend,‟ Holly said. Daniel looked pleased. „Why don‟t we go out for drinks or something before you go away?‟

When Holly sees Tom, Denise and Daniel in the side of the garden she decides to join them. Holly greets them and than ks them for coming. They don‟t meet each other for about two months because Daniel goes to Miami for some business. On this occasion, they have time to share stories. Holly remembers the time when she cried after seeing the documentary film about her birthday celebration some months ago. She thought that the film was so private, only her family and her close friends knew it, and it was beyond her keen that Declan would make it as a public show. She felt embarrassed because many people saw it

in the Hogan‟s. After the show ended, Holly run away from the crowd, she hid in in the Hogan‟s. After the show ended, Holly run away from the crowd, she hid in

be worried. No body would insult her because of the show because it was not something ashamed but it was something funny and entertaining and every body loved it. Holly felt better after hearing Daniels explanation. Then Daniel asked her to stop hiding in the room of Hogan club, and Holly went out to join the crowd again.

For that reason Holly gives Daniel a compliment by saying that he is a good friend, she obeys the approbation maxim in which she says something that makes Daniel please. She never thinks that Daniel will help her because as far as Holly knows that most men will leave the girl alone when they see the girl cry, but Daniel is different. Daniel already accompanied her and gave her advice when she felt sad and cried in Hogan after the show. This compliment has the topic of ability, especially general ability because it show how Daniel has such a good personal quality in which he is a kind of good friend caring and paying attention to others.

When Daniel hears Holly delivers a compliment for him, he looks pleased and then says “Why don‟t we go out for drinks or something before you go away?” Daniel feels pleased because Holly regards him as a good friend. And Daniel‟s response to the compliment shows that he obeys the maxim of generosity When Daniel hears Holly delivers a compliment for him, he looks pleased and then says “Why don‟t we go out for drinks or something before you go away?” Daniel feels pleased because Holly regards him as a good friend. And Daniel‟s response to the compliment shows that he obeys the maxim of generosity

Data 12 The conversation below is between Richard and Holly. They have a conversation in the café; Richard tells his problem to Holly. Richard is fired,

that‟s why he often works on Holly‟s garden to kill the time. „Oh, by the way, Richard, thank you for my garden,‟ Holly smiled, then

leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. „You know?‟ She nodded. „You have such a huge talent and I’m going to pay you

every single penn y you deserve as soon as I find a job.’

Her brother‟s face relaxed into a shy smile. They got into their cars and drove back to the house they grew up in.

There is someone who always clean Holly‟s garden when she goes out. It makes Holly becomes very curi ous. One day, Holly doesn‟t go anywhere and she

hides inside her house in the hope that she will be able to find out the mysterious guy who tidy her garden. The door bell rings, but Holly doesn‟t open the door.

Then she walks slowly and sees the man through the window. Holly is surprised when she knows that the man is her brother, Richard. It is really beyond her expectation that Richard will do this for her. Holly doesn‟t reprimand Richard directly but she follows her brother when her brother leaves her house. Finally, Richard stops at a café and Holly also comes in it. They have a conversation in the café; Richard tells his problem to Holly. Richard is fired, that‟s why he often works on Holly‟s garden to kill the time.

After knowing her brother problem, Holly understands the reason why Richard doesn‟t want to tell her that he is the one who works on her garden. To

appreciate what her brother has done for her, Holly gives maximal compliment to Richard on his talent in gardening by saying “You have such a huge talent and I‟m going to pay you every single penny you deserve as soon as I find a job”. Although Richard studies about science when he is in the college but he has talent on gardening. Since the compliment deals with Richard‟s talent, the compliment has the topic of general ability.

Although Holly gives maximal praise to Richard, in this case the compliment above tends to obey the tact maxim because in her compliment, Holly promises Richard that she will give some money to pay him as soon as she find a job. It can be seen that Richard will be the one who get the benefit and he does not bear any cost. Therefore, this compliment obeys the tact maxim because Holly, as the speaker, maximizes the benefit and minimizes the cost to Richard.

Richard, as the add ressee, accepts Holly‟s compliment. He shows his appreciation by smiling at Holly. It suggests that Richard feels comfortable with her compliment and he wants to show his appreciation. Smiling can be interpreted as a positive facial expression to show approval. Data 15

The conversation occurs in “X” Magazine office. Chris is impressed and satisfied with the interview that he had done with Holly. He welcomes Holly to

join “X” Magazine. Chris shows Holly her new room where she can start to work. „Right, I‟ll leave you to it so.‟ He backed out of the room slowly but join “X” Magazine. Chris shows Holly her new room where she can start to work. „Right, I‟ll leave you to it so.‟ He backed out of the room slowly but

Holly nodded confidently, assuring him he was right.

From the interview, Chris knows Holly‟s background and her experiences. Moreover, Chris has the same experience with Holly because both of them are left

by their spouse. Chris is impressed with Holly‟s strength when she must accompany her sick husband that makes her loose the job. Holly must find the

other job to continue her life after her husband died. Finally, she, who does not have experience in advertising before, is brave to take the challenge to manage the

advertising division in „X‟ Magazine. In Chris‟s opinion Holly is such kind of determined woman that is why he

gives compliment to Holly. The compliment has topic of general ability because the complimented object refers to Holly‟s personal quality. He obeys the

approbation maxim i n which he maximizes the praise to Holly‟s personal quality and his utterance makes Holly feels pleased. Chris as the director gives his employee compliments. The use of nickname that Chris used to call Holly indicates that there is a social status difference between them. It regards to be polite for Chris to use Holly‟s nick name because he has higher position than

Holly as his employee. Chris obeys the approbation maxim in his compliment because when he says „Holly, I hired you because you seem like a very determined young woman.‟

he maximizes the praise to Holly. Chris feels sure that Holly is a kind of determined woman and she will be able to bear the responsibility that will be given to her in “X” Magazine.

Holly does not give verbal response to the compliment, and to show her politeness in responding the compliment she just nods confidently. She wants to assure Chris that he is right. This kind of response indicates the addressee agreement to the speaker.

Data 21 Holly decides to go home before the ball is ended. Daniel already waits her and they go home together. The conversation below is between Holly and Daniel. It happens in the kitchen of Holly‟s house.

„So what am I?‟ Daniel asked quietly. Holly prayed that he wouldn‟t cry. She didn‟t think she could bear it if he cried.

‘You,’ she took a deep breath, ‘are a kind, caring and incredibly thoughtful friend who I respect and appreciate –‘

„But I‟m not Gerry,‟ he interrupted her. „I don‟t want you to be Gerry,‟ she insisted. „I want you to be Daniel.‟

It is quarter to twelve when Holly and Daniel arrive at Holly‟s house. Holly wants to open Gerry‟s last message and she hopes that Daniel will go home

soon after having tea. Actually, Daniel is falling in love with Holly. Daniel is waiting for the right moment to tell Holly about his feeling. But it seems that Holly is not ready yet to open her heart to the other man since Gerry is still with her through his ten letters. Daniel can not force Holly to forget her husband, he just asks Holly to realize that he is not in this world anymore and she should learn how to face her new life without him. Then Daniel asks her about his position in her life.

Holly answer Daniel question with the compliment „You are a kind, caring and incredibly thoughtful friend who I respect and appreciate –„ Holly gives the compliment because she appreciate what Daniel has ever done to her. Daniel is a thoughtful friend. He is care and kind to Holly; he helps her when she gets problem with the job, he always has time when Holly needs someone to talk and the most important is he is understand Holly‟s position as a widow. In this case, the topic of compliments is general ability since Holly gives the compliment based on Daniel‟s personal quality.

It can be seen that Holly uses positive adjective, like kind, care, incredible to compliment Daniel. She gives maximal praise to Daniel and says something that pleases him. Therefore, the compliment is in line with the use of approbation maxim because the speaker maximizes her praise to the addressee. On the other hand, Daniel does not respond the compliment but he interrupts Holly by saying

„But I‟m not Gerry,‟ He wants to say to Holly that now, Daniel is with her, not Gerry. Daniel breaks the politeness rule because interrupting someone is regarded

to be impolite in the conversation. Daniel interrupts Holly before she finishes her sentence.

Data 22 The conversation happens in the elevator between Holly and Leo. Leo is

Holly‟s hairdresser and they become good friend since Holly. They meet in the elevator of the hotel in Wicklow where Denise‟s wedding will be held.

„I haven‟t seen you for ages,‟ Leo said, glancing at Holly‟s hair, making I

„Oh, I know,‟ Holly moaned, covering her roots with her hand. „I‟ve been busy at work thi s month I just haven‟t had time.‟

Leo raised his eyebrows and looked amused. ‘Never did I think I would ever hear you say those words about work. You’re a change woman.’

Holly was thoughtful. „Yes. Yes, I really think I am.‟

Holly wants to go back to her room after finding Daniel‟s room. She goes to the elevator and presses the button. Some minutes later, the elevator door opens; Holly is surprised to see Leo in the elevator then she smiles, steps in and hugs Leo. Holly never thinks that she will see Leo in the hotel. Then, Leo explains that Denise asks him to do her hair in her wedding.

Holly and Leo do not meet each other for some months. Leo looks at Holly‟s hair and finds that Holly‟s hair is not treated well. Holly realizes it and she covers the roots of her hair with her hand. Holly explains that she does not have much time to take care of her hair because she is busy at work. Leo is surprised to hear Holly‟s explanation. He never thinks that Holly will be such a different woman because some months ago Holly was lazy to makeup and ignore her appearance. She was often mourn and did not have spirit to face her future. But, now Holly seems to have a new life, she is able to be a professional and has high dedication at her work. That‟s why Leo gives her compliment by saying „Never did I think I would ever hear you say those words about work. You‟re a change woman.‟ Leo wants to show his admiration to Holly‟s change. This kind

of compliment has topic of general ability because the complimented object is Ho lly‟s personal quality that, now, she is a different woman. She is an independent woman.

In his compliment, Leo shows his admiration to Holly‟s change. He gives his maximal praise to Holly and it makes the compliment makes her feel pleased. Therefore, it can be said that this compliment in line with the use of approbation maxim where the speaker maximizes the praise to the addressee. Holly as the addressee thoughtfully says „Yes. Yes, I really think I am.‟ it seems that she is agree with Leo. The word „yes‟ indicates the agreement. She agrees with Leo that she is a change woman. Holly loves her job and she realizes that she has the responsibility and must give high dedication to the job. The response obeys the maxim of agreement because Holly shows her agreement to Leo.

b. Specific Act Ability

Data 6 Holly‟s family and best friends gather in Club Diva. They want to support Holly in the karaoke contest held in the club. The conversation below happens in the Club Diva between Holly and Sharon. Sharon gives compliment to Holly after she goes down from the stage.

‘I’m so proud of you!’ Sharon said, throwing her arms around Holly‟s

neck. ‘It was awful!’

„Thanks for helping me, Sharon.‟ Holly hugged her friend.

In his third letter, Gerry asks Holly to join a karaoke contest. Gerry knows that Holly has a phobia about this kind of thing and he wants her to face her fear. She has a bad experience when she sings in front of the public and it is the reason

why Gerry enlists Holly‟s name in the contest. It is so hard for Holly to go to the contest. She still remembers that some years ago, she sang in Gerry‟s friend party.

She was drunk and people throw things on the stage when she sang. There were all people saw Holly trip down the steps in her stilettos and fall flat on her face. They all watched as her skirt went flying over her head to reveal her underwear. Holly was taken to the hospital to see her broken nose while Denise and Sharon helped matters by taking a photograph of the scene. From that happening, Holly vowed never to do karaoke again.

Holly hides in the toilet when the DJ calls her name. Sharon tries to persuade her; she convinces her that everything will be all right. Holly must face the reality that now she is already on the stage. She must prove to Gerry that she is able to fight her nightmare. Finally, by the support of the family and friends,

Holly completely sings “I Need Somebody to Love”. After Holly‟s performance, Sharon gives her compliment „I‟m so proud of you!‟ „It was awful!‟. She wants to sho w that she is proud of Holly; she appreciates Holly‟s performance and says that it is great. She smiles at Holly and hug her after she finishes her song. Holly‟s family and friends cheer and congratulate her because finally she can fight her fear about thi s contest. Since the complimented object is Holly‟s performance, it can be identified that the compliment has topic of specific act ability.

The compliments given by Sharon obey the approbation maxim because she maximizes the praise to Holly. They give po sitive comments about Holly‟s performance. Although Holly does not be the winner but at least Holly already proves that she already does the best. Holly proves to Gerry, her family and her friends that she is able to fight her fear of doing karaoke in front of the public. Holly shows her politeness in responding to Sharon‟s compliment by saying

„Thanks for helping me‟ it shows how Holly really appreciate Sharon‟s help and support. She thanks Sharon because she realizes that she will not be able to finish the contest without her support.

Data 7 The conversation happens in Club Diva. Holly comes to the club to see her brother‟s documentary film “Girls and the City” there. She already makes an

appointment with her family and friends to meet there. She arrives at Club Diva at

7.30 p.m. She thinks that the show will be started at 8.00 p.m. so that she comes thirty minutes earlier for a change. In this club, she meets her friend, Daniel, the owner of the club. Daniel is surprised to see Holly comes very early. He explains

that Declan‟s documentary film will be aired at nine o‟clock. Knowing that the show will be started at nine o‟clock, Holly decides to go

around town for a bit and come back later. She asks permission to Daniel to go but he says that the shops are all close by the time. He asks her to stay and accompany him while waiting for the others to come. Then, he offers her some

drinks but she just wants to have water. She doesn‟t want something stronger because she is afraid that she will be drunk by the time everyone arrive at the club.

Daniels gives Holly the water, and then she asks him whether he wants something to drink too. At first, Daniel refuses it but Holly convinces him that it is now her turns to treat him. Daniel wants a Budweiser, but he wants Holly to make it for him. She jumps of her stool and walks round the bar. Daniel stands back and Daniels gives Holly the water, and then she asks him whether he wants something to drink too. At first, Daniel refuses it but Holly convinces him that it is now her turns to treat him. Daniel wants a Budweiser, but he wants Holly to make it for him. She jumps of her stool and walks round the bar. Daniel stands back and

„Mmm . . . well, if you‟re ever looking for work you know where to come,‟ Daniel said, after taking a gulp of his pint. „You did a good job‟ „It‟s not exactly brain surgery,‟ she smiled, bouncing across to the other side of the bar. She took out her purse and h anded him money. „Keep the change.‟

From the conversation above, it can be seen that there is a social distance scale in the use of approbation maxim. Although Daniel, as the owner of Club Diva has authority to compliment Holly, but in this case, the compliment is tend to be a compliment between friends who have good relationship. It is really beyond Daniel expectation that Holly can do all of this. Daniel knows that Holly is hunting for a job, and then he offers her a job to work on his club. He gives com pliment to Holly by saying “You did a good job”. Daniel employs the approbation maxim since he maximizes the pride to Holly, he uses a positive adjective „good‟ to show his positive evaluation to Holly‟s act. Daniel thinks that

for someone who never works on the club before Holly can manage this job perfectly. He gives compliment to her because of her specific act ability in concocting beverage.

Holly responds to the compliment by saying “It‟s not exactly brain surgery”. This response obeys the maxim of modesty where Holly says something

that does not make her pride of herself. The response indicates that Holly wants to say that what she has done is really not a big deal; it is not something difficult to do for her. She does not need to think and work hard just to make Budweiser.

Data 20 The conversation happens in the toilet of the hotel where the Christmas ball is held. It is between Sharon and Holly. Sharon comes into the toilet to save Holly from the women gossiping her.

„Good idea,‟ Sharon agreed. „I didn‟t realize how shite this ball was when you‟re sober.‟ Holly smiled.

‘Anyway, you were great tonight, Holly. You came, you conquered.

N ow go home and open Gerry‟s message. Ring me and let me know what it says‟. She hugged her friend again.

„It‟s the last one,‟ Holly said sadly. „I know, so enjoy it,‟ Sharon smiled. „Memories last a lifetime, remember that.‟

Holly is in the same toilet where some women are gossiping. The women do not know that Holly is also in the toilet when they talk about her and Daniel. They suppose that Holly has special relationship with Daniel and they think that it is disgraceful for Holly to come with a new man in a place she used to go with her husband. Holly is shocked to hear their conversation. She still stands frozen in her position when suddenly someone opens the toilet door beside her and the women. Apparently, Sharon comes to save Holly from the women. She asks the woman not to talk about Holly anymore. She says that it is absolutely not their business of what her best friend, Holly does and does not do. When the women already leave, Holly unlocks the door and steps outside. Holly thanks Sharon for defending her from the women.

Sharon gives the compliment „Anyway, you were great tonight, Holly. You came, you conquered‟ to appreciate Holly for what she has done in the ball Sharon gives the compliment „Anyway, you were great tonight, Holly. You came, you conquered‟ to appreciate Holly for what she has done in the ball

Holly needs great efforts to face the people in the ball and she is able to manage it.

The compliment above obeys the approbation maxim because the speaker gives her maximal praise to the addressee. Sharon says that Holly is great and she congratulates Holly for conquering the worst situation. It is so hard for Holly to go to the ball but finally she is brave to come to the ball and conquers the worst situation. She is able to manage herself stay calm and try to be patient when the people ask her about Gerry and when some people talk about her and Daniel.