A Structuralism Analysis in the Song Lyric Gunslinger by Avenged Sevenfold

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the song Gunslinger by Avenged Sevenfold using Ferdinand de Saussure’s structuralist theory, specifically focusing on the relationship between signifiers and signifieds within the lyrics. The purpose of this research is to understand how emotional struggle is constructed internally through linguistic signs without relying on external context. This study employs a qualitative descriptive method. The data were collected through document analysis by identifying words, phrases, and repeated expressions in the lyrics that function as signifiers. The data were then analyzed using Saussure’s model by examining how each signifier produces its corresponding signified and how meaning emerges from the relational pattern among signs. The findings reveal that Gunslinger constructs emotional struggle through the interplay of contrasting signifiers. Signs such as alone, pain, storm, sky, and far too long signify separation, hardship, and emotional vulnerability. Meanwhile, signifiers such as coming home to you, letters, prayers, heart, and stars signify hope, devotion, and resilience. The repeated phrase coming home to you serves as the structural anchor that unifies the theme of longing. The study concludes that the emotional meaning of the song emerges intrinsically from its internal system of signs, demonstrating the effectiveness of structuralism in analyzing contemporary song lyrics.