Roopa Banerjee
An understatement is a literary device where the author deliberately diminishes or plays down the importance or intensity of a situation, typically for rhetorical or satirical purposes. Or paradoxically, for emphasis.
Understatements are used to emphasise the exact traits that they downplay. When used ironically, they provide humour and effect. When used literally, they downplay expressions that would otherwise seem immodest, such as saying “I did alright” after winning an Oscar. Understatement is the opposite of hyperbole which is overstatement.
The word understatement has its roots in Latin and Old French. The Latin (and English) word ‘under’ means beneath, and the Old French ‘estimer’ means to estimate or appraise. Over time, these merged to form the concept of saying less than is meant. Consequently understatement, as a literary device, gained prominence for its ability to create impact through restraint.
In fiction writing, understatement serves various purposes. It can be used for humour, as seen in comedic literature. On the other hand, it adds depth to tragic moments by allowing readers to infer emotions rather than have them explicitly stated.
Authors use understatement to subtly guide readers’ interpretations, allowing for a more immersive and participatory reading experience. It is a delicate brushstroke that invites readers to engage actively with the text, drawing on their insights and emotions.
Understatement has been extensively used in literature. In Jane Austen’s classic Pride and Prejudice, it is deftly used to describe the tumultuous relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. When Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, she responds with an understatement that echoes through the pages: “You are too generous to trifle with me. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged, but one word from you will silence me on this subject for ever.”
In this exchange, the restrained language masks the intensity of emotions. The impact lies in what is not explicitly stated — unspoken feelings and the gravity of the situation.
In another example, Ernest Hemingway, known for his economical and impactful prose, uses understatement deftly in The Old Man and the Sea. When the old man, Santiago, catches a giant marlin, the understated language heightens the significance of the achievement: “He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eighty-four days now without taking a fish.”
Here, Santiago’s prolonged struggle and resilience are downplayed through the simplicity of the statement, emphasising the solitary nature of the old man’s venture.
In more recent times, the superhit sitcom The Office is famous for its use of understatement to create humour. A notable example is when Michael Scott, the bumbling regional manager, tries to downplay a fire in the office. Amid the chaos, he calmly declares, “All right, it’s happening! Everybody stay calm!” The understated delivery amplifies the absurdity of the situation and provokes laughter.
In Hollywood’s classic movie Casablanca, Rick Blaine mouths a famous understatement as he bids farewell to Ilsa Lund. “Here’s looking at you, kid.” This seemingly casual remark carries layers of unspoken emotion and affection, underscoring the depth of their relationship.
In fiction writing, understatement is an art form — a nuanced expression that allows authors to communicate volumes with minimal words. By saying less, writers invite readers to fill in the gaps, engaging them at a deeper level.
Exercise
Here are some books that have generously used understatement. Name their authors.
Books
1. To the Lighthouse
2. Housekeeping
3. My Brilliant Friend
4. The Road
5. The Remains of the Day
