It’s not so much ‘what metaphors are you using?’ as much as ‘what are they saying about you, your outlook, beliefs, current state of mind?‘ So, seriously, what are they saying?
There’s got to be a whole sub-culture about this, I’m certain. If there’s ever a topic of discussion, you can bet there is an industry blog or magazine and a support group! Googling now “metaphorical mindset.”… And, yep, Metaphorology, Understanding Global Cultures, and LymphomaInfo (very close to suppport group!)
The reason I bring it up is that I notice these things constantly, especially when someone is trying to influence. Are their stories hopeless ”up you-know-what-creek without a paddle,” limiting “you can’t fight City Hall”, challenging “up hill battle,” empowering “Life’s a game”, inspiring “Lance Armstrong winning 7 Tour de France bike races even with cancer nipping at his heals like a rabid dog?”
We use metaphors, most often unconsciously, to explain or communicate what we are seeing, thinking, feeling and doing, whether they are micro-metaphors, analogies, allusions, idioms, sayings, proverbs, quotes, or references to other things.
The bigger question is what do you want your metaphors to be saying about you? you can choose, you know…
Photo Credit: Shashankr
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