ANALYSING METAPHOR USE IN CREATIVE WORK OF SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNERS OF ENGLISH
Keywords:
Key words: Metaphor, Creative work, Second language learners, English language, Metaphorical expression, Linguistic proficiency, Language acquisition, Metaphorical concepts, Language teaching and learning, Instructional strategies, Creativity and Language education.Abstract
Abstract: This article explores the fascinating realm of metaphor use in the creative works produced by second language learners of English. Metaphors, as powerful linguistic devices, allow individuals to convey complex ideas, emotions, and experiences by drawing connections between seemingly unrelated concepts. However, the acquisition and usage of metaphors can be particularly challenging for second language learners due to cultural differences, limited linguistic proficiency, and differing conceptual frameworks. This article aims to shed light on the nature and characteristics of metaphorical expressions employed by second language learners of English in their creative writing. Through a comprehensive analysis of written texts, including poetry, short stories, and essays, the study investigates how learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds employ metaphors to express their thoughts and experiences in the target language.The article methodology involves collecting a corpus of creative works from a diverse group of second language learners of English. The corpus will be analyzed using qualitative and quantitative techniques to identify the types of metaphors used, their frequency, and their effectiveness in conveying intended meanings. Additionally, the study examines the potential influence of learners' native languages and cultural backgrounds on their metaphorical choices. The findings of this article have implications for language teaching and learning. By understanding the challenges faced by second language learners in using metaphors, educators can design more effective instructional strategies to facilitate the development of metaphorical competence. Furthermore, this study contributes to the broader field of metaphor research by providing insights into the creative potential of second language learners and highlighting the interplay between language, culture, and creativity. This article presents an in-depth exploration of metaphor use in the creative work of second language learners of English. Through the analysis of learner-produced texts, the study aims to enhance our understanding of how learners navigate the complexities of metaphorical expression in a second language. The findings have practical implications for language education and offer valuable insights into the creative processes of second language learners.
References
Cameron, L., & Low, G. (1999). Metaphor. In R. Carter & D. Nunan (Eds.), The Cambridge Guide to Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (pp. 86-91). Cambridge University Press.
Kim, M. (2017). Metaphors in narratives by Korean ESL learners. English Language Teaching, 10(5), 40-48.
Kovecses, Z. (2005). Metaphor in Culture: Universality and Variation. Cambridge University Press.
Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1980). Metaphors We Live By. University of Chicago Press.
Littlemore, J. (2009). Applying Cognitive Linguistics to Second Language Learning and Teaching. Palgrave Macmillan.
Steen, G. (2011). The contemporary theory of metaphor—now new and improved! Review of Cognitive Linguistics, 9(1), 26-64.
Zhang, H., & Galbraith, D. (2018). Metaphor and Creative Writing: A Corpus-Based Study of Chinese EFL Learners. Applied Linguistics, 39(2), 180–204.
