Windows and doors. Very simple things we have in every day life. But when we create a metaphor with them, they become more than just windows and doors. They become a frame of view, showing different perspectives. See Through Words by Micheal Erard talks about windows and doors compared to metaphors. The way he talks about the doors and windows showing different perspectives makes me think about the fact that metaphors can change the perspective of the reader or be interpreted differently. With metaphors you sometimes have to ‘help’ the reader see what you want them too. To do this you have to spell things out for the reader, giving them more context.
The way emotions get involved in metaphors, especially for the reader, is amazing to read about. The example that Erard gave was the dandelion and orchid metaphor. He spoke that the metaphor was supposed to show the difference between children who did well under a narrow set of circumstances and children who did well under a range of circumstances. The metaphor didn’t go over well because parents never want to think of their child as a sturdy weed that people are trying to get rid of. Erard made the point of, “When people won’t use a term to describe their own kids, thats a give away that the metaphor won’t work”. This point made sense because parents are always protective of their kids, so when looking at either comparing them to a beautiful flower, or a weed, they’ll pick the flower each time.
Wonderful. I think it’s important that you acknowledged that metaphor can CHANGE a reader’s perspective. Changing people’s minds is a difficult and oft sought after assignment. This insight may be worth holding onto for future reference. 🙂
Your annotations continue to look good. Don’t be afraid to try to capture lengthier reactions in those margins. Your papers can begin right there in the margins of your assigned essays.