Pronouns

As we have already seen, cohesion in writing refers to the logical sequence of ideas, where all the elements of a text are related and develop the main theme. It consists of the connections that exist within texts and gives the writing its flow. Remember that cohesion alone does not guarantee that a text is coherent (i.e. makes sense).

Let’s take a look at t the most important cohesive devices.

Pronoun reference: anaphora and cataphora

Pronouns are used to refer to something or someone mentioned elsewhere in a text, which can help maintain a clear connection between the different parts of a text. Using them allows us to avoid unnecessary repetition.

Pronouns can be used anaphorically to refer back to something previously mentioned, or cataphorically to refer to something further on in the text, often in order to create suspense.

• Barcelona is a beautiful city. It has a rich history and is known for its incredible architecture. (anaphora: it refers back to Barcelona)
• When she first saw them, Marianne didn’t know the kittens would bring so much joy to her life. (cataphora: them refers to the kittens)

Cataphoric pronoun reference to create suspense

This cohesive device can be an effective means of creating suspense in a narrative as it piques the reader’s curiosity and foreshadows events or descriptions to come. Here are some more examples:

“When he walked into the room, everyone gasped. It was the notorious Mr. Black, and he was holding a revolver.”
In this example, the pronoun he is used cataphorically, creating suspense about who the character is and why everyone gasps when he enters.

“They were crawling all over the floor. The spiders, big and hairy, were too many to count.”
Here, the pronoun they is used before revealing what it refers to – the spiders. This usage creates a sense of dread and suspense.

“If you meet her, you will understand why. Melissa is the most intriguing person you’ll ever come across.”
In this case, the pronoun her is used cataphorically to build intrigue about Melissa, prompting curiosity about why she’s so intriguing.

“It was the most terrifying sight. The massive tornado was tearing through the town.”
The pronoun it is used cataphorically, keeping the reader in suspense until revealing the terrifying sight – the tornado.

Through these examples, we see that cataphoric reference can be an effective technique for creating suspense, drawing in readers, and keeping them engaged in a text.

For more on this use of cataphora read this excellent post from Cambridge on the use of cataphora in literature.

Advanced use of pronoun reference: possessive pronouns used as subject

The use of possessive pronouns as the subject of a sentence is a specific way in which in which advanced English learners use pronoun reference differently – and more effectively – than lower level learners. The following examples have been taken from the grammar section of the Cambridge English Profile, a corpus which itemises grammatical and lexical items used successfully by exam candidates according to CEFR level.

1. Yet, beautiful dreams never last long, and theirs lasted until she had to leave England. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Italian)
2. When comparing the value and achievements of athletes with doctors or scientists, theirs begin to lack in significance. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)
3. Theirs is a relationship between two members of the privileged classes, who really don’t care about the world around (or below) them. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
4. Theirs had always been a love-hate relationship. (Italy; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Italian; Pass)

Notice how in the first two examples the possessive pronoun theirs is used anaphorically, while in the third and fourth it is used cataphorically as a stylistic choice. Compare with these more prosaic (i.e. less eloquent) alternatives:

• Their relationship is one between two members of the privileged classes […].
• They had always had a love-hate relationship.