1(2)2016+.pdf


Metaphor in the 
Author’s Comments

The ability to read, understand and appreciate a piece ofliterature is not an easy task at all, for literature is a
“specific world” giving a good opportunity to study the
diversity of imaginative elements, those inherent and adherent
connotations which give birth to many new meanings.

It goes without saying that in the language of fiction there
is a constant interplay of language units which offers a whole
range of interpretations and makes an aesthetic impact on the
reader. In this respect the creative use of stylistic devices in
verbal art is worth mentioning, for tropes and figures of
speech require careful study, inspiration and artistic effort.

Among all language units metaphor is one of the most
powerful means, revealing the author’s personal understanding of the surrounding
world, his ideas and intentions. Metaphors figuratively suggest the author’s goal, create
artistic effects, and conjure up poetic images. Human language is profoundly
metaphorical, and language as a whole has been figuratively defined as “a dictionary of
faded metaphors”.1

The present article touches upon the use of metaphor, its effect and realization in the
author’s comments in D.H. Lawrence’s short stories. Lawrence’s writings are beautiful
and filled with sensual images. Each story seems to be simply a slice of life that
describes the existence of simple people in simple circumstances, yet seen from
extraordinary points of view. The beautiful use of language and imagery will attract the
attention of almost every reader.

Lawrence’s short stories offer brilliant flashes. He “can pack so much into such little
space”(William York Tindalli,1961). Lawrence  expresses  his  attitude  towards  the  life
of  simple  people  in  a  succinct  way,  yet  in  every  uttered  word  there  is  a  hint of
wisdom. 

Lawrence was anxious to explore reality. “His great theme is the relationship:
between man and man, woman and beast or anybody and the radiant universe”2. The
stories prove and expand these connections. Man’s great impulse, he said, is “to build a
world, his own belief and to make through his own efforts something wonderful in this
world” (William York Tindalli, 1961).

D. H. Lawrence is always “present” in his stories, as if he is following every action
of his characters. Sometimes he interferes in the dialogues and gives his own reasons and
motives, represents the heroes, their feelings, passions, beliefs, describes the subtle

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