Lesson 50. The Metaphor Writ Small│The Mechanics of Fiction Writing

Lesson 50. The Metaphor Writ Small│The Mechanics of Fiction Writing

Understanding the Role of Metaphors in Fiction

The Nature and Function of Metaphors

Metaphors are defined as pithy comparisons that describe one thing as if it were another, allowing writers to convey familiarity with new situations.

They serve as cognitive shortcuts, enabling readers to grasp new concepts through familiar ideas or imagery, enhancing clarity and understanding.

Many metaphors go unnoticed in everyday language; they have become so ingrained that we often fail to recognize them as metaphoric expressions.

Examples include phrases like "I am wiped out" or "the pressure... left Andre totally drained," which illustrate how common metaphors can be overlooked.

The term "dead metaphors" refers to those that have lost their original vividness due to frequent use, making them feel ordinary rather than novel.

Clichés and Their Utility

Clichés arise from the utility of certain metaphors but can lose their impact over time; however, not all clichés need to be eliminated from writing.

While avoiding clichés is generally advised for originality, some may still hold value if used self-consciously within a narrative context.

The effectiveness of a metaphor diminishes when it becomes predictable; fresh analogies tend to evoke stronger emotional responses.

Linguistic Bootstrapping Through Metaphor

Metaphors act as linguistic bootstrapping tools by linking known concepts with new phenomena, facilitating easier communication and understanding.

Steven Pinker illustrates this with examples like "a kettle boiling over," which can describe various unrelated situations effectively through analogy.

This versatility is particularly beneficial for explaining complex ideas to audiences unfamiliar with specific topics.

Literary Application of Metaphors

In literature, effective metaphors must create clear connections between familiar sources and novel targets while conveying appropriate emotional tones.

Pinker emphasizes two essential functions: establishing a useful link between the source (known information) and target (new situation), along with emotional resonance.

Example of Effective Literary Metaphor

An example provided is Benjamin Disraeli's quote about climbing a "greasy pole," which successfully links the difficulty of physical ascent with political challenges.

Understanding Metaphors: Common Mistakes and Effective Use

Common Mistakes in Using Metaphors

There are three primary ways metaphors can fail, often leading to comedic outcomes. The first mistake is using a source that provides no additional information about the target, failing to enhance understanding.

Pinker illustrates this with examples like "John and Mary had never met; they were like two hummingbirds who had also never met," which adds no clarity and highlights the writer's cluelessness.

The second error occurs when the explanation of the metaphor becomes overly complicated, undermining its purpose. For instance, a metaphor should be quick and sharp rather than requiring extensive elaboration.

An example of an ineffective metaphor is "he spoke with wisdom... like a guy who went blind because he looked at a solar eclipse," which convolutes the intended message.

The most severe mistake happens when the emotional tone of the source clashes with that of the target, resulting in absurd comparisons such as "the ballerina rose gracefully on point and extended one slender leg behind her like a dog at a fire hydrant."

Guidelines for Effective Metaphor Usage

Writers should focus on ensuring their metaphors have clear analogical associations and appropriate emotional coloring. If these elements are lacking, it may be best to avoid forcing metaphors into writing.

While Pinker's guidelines serve as useful benchmarks for evaluating metaphors, there are instances where effective metaphors can enhance fiction significantly.

Types of Effective Metaphors

Brief or Simple Metaphors

One type of effective metaphor is what could be termed “like” metaphors. These convey ideas quickly without unnecessary complexity, making them easier to apply in writing.

Visual Imagery in Metaphors

Another appreciated type involves conveying strong visual images. Melville’s work exemplifies this through rich imagery that resonates deeply despite sometimes requiring footnotes for context due to historical references.

A notable example from Melville describes a ship leaving "a furrow in the sea as when a cannonball misses its mark," effectively combining vivid imagery with emotional resonance regarding movement through water.

Memorable Examples from Literature

Metaphors in Fiction Writing

The Importance of Visual and Emotional Elements

The speaker emphasizes the visual appeal and simple beauty of metaphors, comparing them to "the rings of eternity," highlighting their profound impact on storytelling.

Writers are encouraged to take notes on how targets (characters or themes) are described through sources (metaphors), focusing on the emotional coloring that enhances meaning.

Crafting Effective Metaphors

While metaphors can add descriptive beauty to writing, they risk falling flat if not executed well; patience is required to master this skill.

The speaker uses a Christmas tree metaphor to illustrate that while metaphors are decorative elements, the core story remains paramount—emphasizing substance over style.

Alternatives to Metaphorical Writing