Metaphor clusters in discourse

Authors

  • Lynne J. Cameron University of Leeds
  • Juurd H. Stelma University of Manchester

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/japl.v1.i2.107

Keywords:

metaphor, conciliation, clusters, bursts, visualisation, discourse

Abstract

The phenomenon of clustering, where speakers or writers suddenly produce multiple metaphors, is widespread and intriguing. This paper presents an innovative visualisation methodology for identifying and exploring metaphor clusters, comparing it to existing methods that use cumulative frequency graphs and Poisson curve fitting, and addressing issues that arise from these. Identification of clusters from the visualisation is shown to be reliable and practical, while also offering in-depth exploration across a range of discourse parameters. Conversations aimed at conciliation between a perpetrator of violence and a victim (total 160 minutes) are analysed for clusters and their discourse functions. All techniques show clusters at two distinct time scales, of around one minute and of several seconds. Clusters in conciliation talk account for about 42 per cent of the total metaphors, and cover about 30 per cent of the discourse. Discourse work carried out in clusters includes explanation of a speaker’s perspective to the Other, appropriation of metaphors originally used by the Other, and exploration of alternative, negative, scenarios that had been possible choices for the speaker but had been rejected. The finding that metaphor clusters are sites of intensive work relating to the central discourse purpose supports cluster exploration as a heuristic tool for discourse analysis.

Author Biographies

  • Lynne J. Cameron, University of Leeds

    Professor Lynne J. Cameron School of Education University of Leeds Leeds LS2 9JT

  • Juurd H. Stelma, University of Manchester

    School of Education

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Published

2004-06-16

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Cameron, L. J., & Stelma, J. H. (2004). Metaphor clusters in discourse. Journal of Applied Linguistics and Professional Practice, 1(2), 107-136. https://doi.org/10.1558/japl.v1.i2.107

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