Opening the thinkgates?
The discourse dynamics of migration metaphors in online
debates
Monika Reif | University of Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU)
This corpus study investigates the uptake and (non-)continuation
of metaphors and metaphor scenarios related to migration/migrants in news
reader comment sections of selected British broadsheets and tabloids. It is
shown how scenarios are modified and aspects of the source domain
foregrounded/backgrounded in order to serve the argumentative interests of
the respective writers. At the same time, potential correlations between
specific conceptual metaphors and argumentative topoi are analysed, with a
particular focus on mixed metaphors. It is argued that the combinations of
conceptual metaphors found in instances of mixed metaphor often create
cognitive dissonance, but that the wish for dramatic effect through
exaggeration appears to justify the merger of two seemingly incompatible
metaphors. The argumentative aim thus seems to be more important than the
internal coherence of the mixed metaphor itself. With regard to the use of
concrete metaphorical linguistic expressions, the corpus data further reveal
that language users repeatedly draw on specific lexical items linked to a
restricted area of the source domain. It is not surprising, therefore, that
the discourse surrounding the topic of migration comes across as highly
conventionalised at times, especially within socio-political echo
chambers.
Article outline
- 1.Introductory remarks
- 2.Analysing metaphors in dynamic, computer-mediated discourse: Critical
Discourse Analysis, conceptual blending and metaphor shifting
- 3.Empirical study
- 3.1Data, research questions and methodology
- 3.2Results
- 3.2.1Overview of source domains and topoi
- 3.2.1.1Conventionalised metaphors
- 3.2.1.2Novel creations and less established metaphors
- 3.2.2Mixed metaphors and their argumentative function
- 3.2.3Metaphor continuation strategies in reader comments
- 4.Discussion, conclusion and outlook
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Notes
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References