Blog 3

Metaphors are used so frequently today that we have become immune to them. With that being said, in Dhruv Khullar’s “The Trouble with Medicine’s Metaphor’s”  we are informed about the metaphors used in terms of health. He focuses on the importance of diction in the metaphors. He goes on to discuss how the connotation of some words can actually do more harm without realizing. Khullar focuses on cancer and how people often say “fighting cancer” or battling cancer”. However the connotations of the words “fight” and “battle” actually caused depression and a “poorer quality of life”. Soon after, Khullar mentions a report that shows that these patients who are told to “fight”, feel as though they have to wear a mask for their loved ones in order to not frighten them.

 

Personally, I think that words are very powerful and need to be used with care. Especially when talking to someone who is ill.  Dhruv Khullar mentions how the use of metaphor in medicine is “pervasive” which can be good or bad. You want the metaphors that spread to be uplifting and inspiring rather than depression causing. This relates to Erards piece as he uncovers the process behind creating these metaphors. He also discusses the importance of diction in order to create a successful metaphor that is widely used.  Throughout all three pieces, we are reminded of the power that each person has in interpretation and how dangerous a metaphor can become. 

 

“Metaphorically Speaking” by James Geary:  “If, for example, house prices are routinely described as climbing and climbing, higher and higher, people might naturally assume that that rise is unstoppable.” — this statement relates to “The Trouble with Medicines Metaphors” as it discusses the importance of word choice. In this case, “climbing” gives the impression of going up because nobody ever thinks about climbing down. Therefore, the metaphor can be interpreted differently or possibly even allowing persuasion. 

 

 

See Through Words by Michael Erard: “At the end, the floor will be covered with the blood of failed comparisons.” —  I feel this quote is important because not many people are aware of the process behind creating a metaphor. This quote allows me to relate metaphor making to essay making. The writing process includes revising which sometimes means getting rid of some wording in order to make it the best version it can be. 

 

The Trouble with Medicine’s Metaphors by Dhruv Khullar:  “Metaphors are a fundamental mechanism through which our minds conceptualize the world around us, especially in the face of complexity. ” — I agree with this statement since I feel that metaphors are a way of comparing something that is complex to something that is familiar in order for us to understand more.

 

 

 

 

One thought on “Blog 3”

  1. Something to consider:

    You write, “I think that words are very powerful and need to be used with care. Especially when talking to someone who is ill.”

    You are well on your way to forming a strong thesis. Consider adding a “why” to flesh it out.

    For example: Words are very powerful and need to be used with care, especially when talking to someone who is ill, because language can …

    No matter what thesis you choose to argue, you are well on your way. Keep up the good work!

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