Hair of the Frog and other Empty Metaphors: The Play Element in Figurative Language

Abstract

In this essay we discuss a class of apparently metaphorical idioms, exemplified by “fine as frog's hair,” that do not afford any obvious interpretation, and appear to have originated, at least in part, in language play. We review recent trends in both play theory and metaphor theory, and show that a playful approach to language is often an important element in the use and understanding of metaphors (and idioms generally), even when metaphors can be readily interpreted by means of a vehicle-to-topic mapping. Based on this evidence we call for a more deliberate inclusion of language play in metaphor theory and analysis.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This essay took shape during discussions in the graduate research seminar, Sp 556. We are indebted to Wynde Dyer, Gloria Hinkle, Chris Richter, Nate Roberts, and Sylvia Sissel for their many novel insights, useful suggestions, and provocative questions. We are also indebted to Ray Gibbs and one anonymous reviewer for many helpful criticisms and suggestions.

Notes

¹Many theorists might resist including poetry or rhetoric within the definition of play, on the grounds that they are “serious,” but it is difficult to come up with a justification for excluding them.