After reading through the transcript of Geary’s “Metaphorically Speaking” for a second time, his thoughts started to become a lot clearer. The first time I read it through, I was able to build a basic understanding of a metaphor. Though now, after carefully going through, analyzing and annotating the transcript, I was able to comprehend the deeper meaning behind metaphors that Geary was conveying. I realized that anything can become a metaphor for something and that it is a thought before being written down. A metaphor is created through the constant association of what is around us and placing it into context with our experiences.
A segment in Geary’s talk that stood out to me is when he discussed how “metaphor creates a kind of conceptual synesthesia, in which we understand once concept in the context of another” (min 03:48). It highlights how what we experience in life leads to us associating one thing with another. This use of the literal meaning of words enables us to create patterns in thoughts and associations, helping us build a greater understanding. Metaphors enable us to connect what we know to give understanding to something unknown which is how they have impacted my life. If I come across something I do not know and keep taking it literally, I will never be able to understand it. However, as soon as I connect the unknown experience within a context I know, I slowly begin to gain a better understanding. The application of a metaphor gives a deeper, thought-provoking meaning to something literal, which allows you to make sense of something unfamiliar.
Marie,
First of all, I enjoyed reading your “About Me” page. I found your reflection on a country’s separate cultures fascinating and insightful. It’s so nice to have you in the class!
Your annotations are off to an amazing start! I also appreciated how you reached after understanding by way of your blog’s reflection. Your self-to-text connection begins: “Metaphors enable us to connect what we know to give understanding to something unknown which is how they have impacted my life. ” I encourage you to try to identify a specific example. Sometimes, the details provide gateways to wider understanding.