An exploration into the properties and functions of Graffiti

Abstract

This paper discusses the linguistic properties and functions of wall writings (graffiti) made in Kenyan  Universities. The paper starts with an introduction by giving the definition of graffiti and a background to its study. The paper also takes a look at the some of the common features of graffiti as forms of linguistic communication. This paper was guided by Hallidayian framework of studying linguistic function. It describes the motivations behind the authors of wall literature and identifies a number of linguistic functions of graffiti some of which are unique to this linguistics phenomenon and others which are marked in such settings. It concludes that a deeper study may unravel other fundamental properties and functions of human language.

Key Words: Graffiti, Wall writings, Latrinalia, lingusitic functions