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Writing Workshop #9: Metaporically Speaking



INTRO: All of our metaphorical expressions are derived from larger, controlling metaphors that translate an abstract concept into a tangible, relatable one. For example, look at the following controlling metaphors and the many commonly-used sentences we derive from them:  

 IDEAS ARE PEOPLE/PLANTS

The theory of relativity gave birth to so many ideas in physics.

Whose brainchild was that?

The seeds of his ideas will live on forever.

Where’d you dig up that idea?

LOVE IS A PATIENT

This is a sick relationship.

The marriage is dead; it can’t be revived.

Their marriage is on its last legs.

We’re getting back on our feet.

LIFE IS A GAMBLE

I’ll take my chances.

You can always count on him when the chips are down.

Let’s up the ante.

The odds are against me.  

WRITING WORKSHOP #9:

Take one of the controlling metaphors below and write a story derived from some aspect of it—using a fantasy, sci-fi, or horror perspective.

A MACHINE IS A COMPANION
Ex: Me and my old Toyota have seen a lot of the country together…

UNDERSTANDING IS SEEING
Ex: Dig a bit deeper and you’ll discover a darker truth.

THEORIES ARE BUILDINGS
Ex: Your premise has a very shaky foundation.

IDEAS ARE FASHIONS
Ex: That idea went out of style years ago.  

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