Light v. dark metaphors Ivie 1987 “Metaphor and the Rhetorical Invention of Cold War “Idealists”

Light v. dark metaphors Ivie 1987 “Metaphor and the Rhetorical Invention of Cold War “Idealists”

An example of a good metaphor is the light versus dark metaphor. This is a good metaphor because it allows one to distinguish between opposing sides. It gives the audience no choice. All good metaphors do not give the audience a choice. Metaphors are very useful, but can be over used. When they are overused, they are rendered useless. Metaphors allow the author to convey meaning in a limited, yet powerful way. It simplifies arguments. When an argument is simplified is allows the audience to relate and choose what the meaning means for themselves. Metaphors, in the way I have described them above, dialogue. Dialogue is real communication. It is when the walls come down and vulnerability occurs. Metaphors foster a vulnerable environment. Dialogue is the goal of conversations. When dialogue is achieved, it is considered a success.