Figurative language comparing abstract concepts to meteorological phenomena provides a powerful tool for conveying complex ideas in accessible terms. For instance, describing someone’s mood as “stormy” instantly communicates a sense of inner turmoil and potential volatility. These comparisons draw on shared experiences of natural events, allowing writers and speakers to evoke specific emotions and imagery efficiently.
This evocative power has been utilized across cultures and throughout history, from ancient storytelling and religious texts to modern literature and everyday conversation. Employing such descriptive language enhances comprehension and memorability, making abstract concepts more relatable and tangible. This practice enriches communication, offering a deeper understanding of the human condition and the world around us.
The following sections will explore specific examples of these comparisons, analyzing their cultural significance and the nuanced meanings they convey. From the “sunshine of a smile” to the “chill of fear,” the breadth and depth of these descriptive tools offer a rich field of study.
1. Emotional Range
The breadth of human emotions finds a powerful parallel in the diverse nature of weather phenomena. This connection allows weather metaphors to express a wide spectrum of feelings, from subtle nuances to intense states. A gentle “breeze of hope” signifies a nascent positive feeling, while a “raging storm of grief” conveys overwhelming sorrow. The sheer variety of weather conditionssunshine, rain, fog, wind, snow, stormsmirrors the complexity of human emotional experience, offering a rich vocabulary for expressing both internal states and the impact of external events. This capacity to encapsulate a broad emotional range contributes significantly to the effectiveness and pervasiveness of weather-related metaphors in communication.
Consider the difference between describing a situation as “a bit cloudy” versus “a tempest brewing.” The former suggests mild confusion or uncertainty, while the latter implies imminent conflict and heightened tension. This ability to convey gradations of emotion with precision makes these metaphors valuable tools for writers, speakers, and artists seeking to evoke specific responses in their audience. Understanding the link between weather and emotions allows for more nuanced interpretation and creation of impactful figurative language. The “icy grip of fear” paints a vivid picture of paralysis, distinct from the “passing shower of disappointment” that suggests a more transient negative emotion. This range facilitates more accurate and impactful communication.
Effective use of weather metaphors relies on a keen awareness of this emotional range. Choosing the appropriate comparison allows for concise yet powerful communication, enhancing clarity and emotional resonance. While challenges can arise from cultural variations in the interpretation of specific weather phenomena, the underlying principle of mirroring emotional states with meteorological events remains a potent force in human language. Recognizing this connection unlocks a deeper understanding of both the artistry of language and the complexities of human experience.
2. Cultural context
Interpretations of weather phenomena differ significantly across cultures, influencing the meaning and impact of related metaphors. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for effective communication and avoids misinterpretations. While some associations are universal, others hold specific significance within particular cultural frameworks. Analyzing these variations provides valuable insights into the relationship between language, culture, and the natural world.
-
Rain
In some cultures, rain symbolizes life, renewal, and cleansing. Agricultural societies often view rain as a blessing, essential for sustenance and prosperity. However, in other contexts, rain can represent sadness, gloom, or even divine punishment. These contrasting interpretations demonstrate the cultural relativity of metaphorical meaning. A “rainy day” can signify a time of hardship in one culture, while in another, it represents a period of rejuvenation and growth.
-
Sunshine
While sunshine often represents happiness, positivity, and clarity across many cultures, its specific connotations can vary. In some regions, excessive sunshine can be associated with drought and hardship, leading to negative metaphorical interpretations. Conversely, in regions with limited sunlight, its appearance carries greater significance, symbolizing hope, warmth, and life. These diverse interpretations underscore the importance of cultural context in understanding symbolic language.
-
Storms
Storms, representing powerful natural forces, often symbolize chaos, disruption, and emotional upheaval. The specific type of stormthunderstorms, hurricanes, blizzardscan further refine the metaphorical meaning. In some cultures, storms may be linked to specific deities or mythological figures, adding layers of cultural significance. Understanding these cultural narratives enriches the interpretation of storm metaphors in literature, art, and everyday communication.
-
Wind
Wind, a powerful yet invisible force, can hold various symbolic meanings depending on its intensity and cultural context. A gentle breeze might represent change, transition, or the passage of time, while a strong wind can signify destruction, instability, or the presence of spirits. Certain cultures associate specific wind directions with particular meanings, further highlighting the impact of cultural context on metaphorical interpretation. This nuanced understanding of wind metaphors allows for more accurate comprehension and appreciation of their diverse applications.
These cultural variations illustrate the complexity and richness of weather metaphors. Recognizing the influence of cultural context allows for more nuanced interpretation and prevents miscommunication. By appreciating these diverse perspectives, one gains a deeper understanding of how language reflects and shapes cultural perceptions of the natural world and the human experience.
3. Symbolic Power
Weather metaphors derive significant symbolic power from the universal human experience of natural phenomena. Weathers profound impact on daily life, from influencing agricultural practices to shaping emotional states, imbues it with inherent meaning. This intrinsic significance translates readily into symbolic representation, allowing weather metaphors to convey complex ideas concisely and effectively. The association of sunshine with happiness or rain with sadness demonstrates this symbolic power, tapping into deeply ingrained cultural and psychological connections. This inherent symbolism allows for efficient communication by evoking shared understandings and emotional responses. For instance, describing a challenging period as “weathering the storm” immediately conveys a sense of resilience and eventual triumph over adversity. Such metaphors resonate deeply because they draw upon shared experiences and the inherent power of natural imagery.
The symbolic power of weather metaphors extends beyond individual emotional states to encompass broader cultural and societal concepts. Cultural narratives frequently employ weather symbolism to represent societal shifts, historical events, or spiritual beliefs. The “winds of change” might represent political upheaval, while a “drought of creativity” could signify cultural stagnation. These broader applications demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of weather metaphors. Analyzing literature, folklore, and other cultural expressions reveals the pervasiveness of weather symbolism in shaping collective understanding. Understanding this broader context allows for a deeper appreciation of the cultural significance embedded within these seemingly simple comparisons. Furthermore, it allows for more effective utilization of such metaphors in communication, ensuring resonance with the intended audience.
Harnessing the symbolic power of weather metaphors requires careful consideration of both the specific cultural context and the intended message. While certain associations, such as sunshine and happiness, possess relatively universal appeal, others require nuanced understanding to avoid misinterpretation. Furthermore, the specific choice of weather element and its associated imagery can significantly impact the overall effect. A “gentle rain” carries different connotations than a “torrential downpour,” emphasizing the importance of precision in selecting appropriate metaphors. This understanding of the symbolic power inherent in weather metaphors allows for effective communication and enhances the richness and depth of language. It allows one to tap into a powerful reservoir of shared cultural and emotional experiences, strengthening the impact and resonance of communication.
4. Sensory Details
Sensory details significantly enhance the impact and effectiveness of weather metaphors. By incorporating specific sensory experiences associated with different weather phenomena, these metaphors become more vivid, evocative, and memorable. Evoking tactile sensations like the chill of a biting wind or the warmth of the sun, auditory experiences like the crash of thunder or the gentle patter of rain, and visual imagery like the blinding brightness of lightning or the soft glow of twilight allows the audience to connect with the metaphor on a deeper, more visceral level. This connection strengthens the metaphor’s communicative power and enhances its ability to convey complex emotions and abstract concepts.
-
Tactile Sensations
The sense of touch plays a crucial role in grounding weather metaphors in tangible experience. Describing a situation as having a “cold, hard edge” immediately evokes the physical sensation of coldness, enhancing the metaphor’s impact. Similarly, the “warm embrace of friendship” uses the sensation of warmth to convey comfort and security. By incorporating tactile details, the abstract concepts gain a physical dimension, making them more relatable and memorable. The “stinging bite of betrayal” or the “smooth, calm surface of tranquility” further illustrate the power of tactile imagery in enhancing metaphorical language.
-
Auditory Experiences
Sounds associated with weather contribute significantly to the emotional impact of metaphors. The “rumble of discontent” mimics the low, ominous sound of thunder, foreshadowing potential conflict. Conversely, the “whisper of a promise” utilizes the soft, subtle sound of a gentle breeze to convey intimacy and hope. By incorporating auditory details, metaphors gain a dynamic quality, engaging the audience’s imagination and enhancing their emotional connection to the described concept. The “deafening silence of grief” or the “joyful chorus of celebration” further illustrate the power of auditory imagery in conveying complex emotional states.
-
Visual Imagery
Visual details are central to the evocative power of weather metaphors. “A dark cloud hanging over someone” instantly creates a visual representation of burden or worry. The “bright spark of inspiration,” conversely, evokes the sudden flash of lightning, suggesting a moment of clarity or insight. These visual cues create a stronger connection between the metaphor and the intended meaning, making the abstract more concrete and accessible. The “blinding fog of confusion” or the “crystal-clear vision of the future” further demonstrate how visual imagery enhances the impact and memorability of metaphorical language.
-
Olfactory and Gustatory Details
While less frequently employed, olfactory and gustatory details can add unique dimensions to weather metaphors. The “sweet smell of success” might borrow from the fresh scent after rain, while the “bitter taste of defeat” could evoke the metallic tang sometimes associated with thunderstorms. These less common sensory details can create surprisingly powerful and memorable metaphors when used effectively. The “stale air of stagnation” or the “refreshing taste of victory” demonstrate the potential of these sensory details to enhance the impact and originality of metaphorical language.
By engaging multiple senses, weather metaphors create a more immersive and impactful experience for the audience. The combination of tactile, auditory, visual, olfactory, and gustatory details strengthens the connection between the abstract concept and the concrete experience of weather, enriching communication and enhancing understanding. This sensory richness transforms simple comparisons into powerful tools for conveying complex emotions and ideas, making them more relatable, memorable, and effective.
5. Descriptive Imagery
Descriptive imagery forms the core of effective weather metaphors, transforming abstract concepts into vivid, sensory experiences. The skillful use of imagery allows audiences to connect with these metaphors on a deeper emotional and cognitive level, enhancing comprehension and memorability. By painting a picture with words, writers and speakers leverage the inherent power of weather phenomena to convey complex ideas concisely and effectively. This exploration delves into the key facets of descriptive imagery within the context of weather metaphors.
-
Visual Representation
Visual details are paramount in crafting impactful weather metaphors. Describing a character’s face as “stormy” instantly conjures an image of dark clouds, perhaps with flashes of lightning, reflecting inner turmoil. Conversely, a “sunny disposition” evokes bright, warm sunlight, suggesting cheerfulness and optimism. These visual representations create a direct link between the abstract concept and a concrete image, facilitating understanding and emotional connection. The visual aspect of descriptive imagery allows the audience to “see” the metaphor, making it more impactful and memorable.
-
Sensory Engagement
Beyond visual representation, descriptive imagery engages multiple senses to create a more immersive experience. The “biting wind of adversity” evokes the tactile sensation of cold, enhancing the feeling of hardship. Similarly, the “gentle patter of rain on the roof” creates an auditory image of tranquility and peace. Engaging multiple senses through imagery deepens the audience’s connection to the metaphor, making it more resonant and emotionally charged. This multi-sensory approach allows for a more holistic and impactful representation of complex ideas.
-
Emotional Resonance
Descriptive imagery amplifies the emotional impact of weather metaphors. Describing a feeling of fear as “a cold knot in the stomach” combines the tactile sensation of coldness with the visual image of a knot, creating a powerful representation of anxiety and unease. Similarly, “a wave of relief washing over someone” uses both visual and tactile imagery to convey the emotional release of tension. By carefully selecting descriptive details, writers and speakers can evoke specific emotions in their audience, strengthening the impact and memorability of the metaphor.
-
Figurative Language
Figurative language, including similes and metaphors, works in tandem with descriptive imagery to create powerful and evocative comparisons. The simile “as cold as ice” uses the readily understood image of ice to convey emotional detachment, while the metaphor “a heart of stone” uses the hardness of stone to represent lack of empathy. These figures of speech, combined with descriptive imagery, add layers of meaning and complexity to weather metaphors, enhancing their communicative power and artistic effect.
These interconnected facets of descriptive imagery work together to elevate weather metaphors beyond simple comparisons. By engaging the senses, evoking emotions, and utilizing figurative language, these metaphors become powerful tools for conveying complex ideas, creating lasting impressions, and enriching communication. The skillful use of descriptive imagery allows writers and speakers to harness the inherent power of weather phenomena, transforming abstract concepts into vivid, sensory experiences that resonate deeply with the audience.
6. Figurative Language
Figurative language forms the bedrock of weather metaphors, providing the linguistic tools to create evocative comparisons between meteorological phenomena and abstract concepts. This connection relies on the ability of figurative language to transcend literal meanings, enabling a deeper, more nuanced understanding of complex ideas. Devices like similes, metaphors, personification, and hyperbole contribute significantly to the effectiveness of these comparisons. A simile, such as “emotions as turbulent as a stormy sea,” explicitly compares two dissimilar things using “like” or “as.” Metaphors, like “a flood of tears,” create an implicit comparison, directly equating the abstract concept with the weather phenomenon. Personification, ascribing human qualities to weather, like “the wind howled in anger,” enhances the emotional impact. Hyperbole, using exaggeration for emphasis, as in “a blizzard of activity,” amplifies the scale or intensity of the described concept. These figures of speech, individually and in combination, enrich the descriptive power of weather metaphors, making them more vivid, memorable, and effective.
Understanding the function of figurative language within weather metaphors is crucial for both interpretation and creation. Recognizing the specific device employedsimile, metaphor, personification, or hyperboleprovides insight into the intended meaning and emotional impact. For example, understanding the hyperbole in “a thousand suns shone in her smile” reveals the intent to emphasize the intensity of the joy, not a literal abundance of suns. This understanding facilitates more accurate interpretation and appreciation of the writer’s or speaker’s craft. Furthermore, this knowledge enables more effective utilization of weather metaphors in one’s own communication. Choosing the appropriate figurative language allows for precise and impactful conveyance of complex emotions and abstract ideas. Whether crafting a poem, writing a novel, or simply engaging in everyday conversation, a grasp of figurative language enhances communicative effectiveness.
The interplay between figurative language and weather metaphors creates a potent tool for communication. This connection relies on shared cultural and psychological associations with weather phenomena, allowing for efficient conveyance of complex information. While challenges can arise from cultural variations in interpretation, the underlying principles remain consistent. Recognizing the role of figurative language in constructing and interpreting weather metaphors enhances both comprehension and appreciation of their artistic and communicative power. This understanding allows individuals to engage more deeply with language, fostering clearer communication and a richer understanding of human experience.
7. Conceptual mapping
Conceptual mapping provides a valuable tool for analyzing and understanding the complex relationships embedded within weather metaphors. These diagrams visually represent the connections between the source domain (weather) and the target domain (the abstract concept being described). This visual representation clarifies the metaphorical mapping process, highlighting the specific attributes and characteristics being transferred from the weather phenomenon to the abstract concept. For example, a conceptual map exploring the metaphor “a storm of emotions” would link “storm” to attributes like turbulence, intensity, unpredictability, and potential for change. These attributes then connect to corresponding emotional states, such as anger, fear, confusion, and catharsis. This visual representation reveals the underlying logic of the metaphor, making implicit connections explicit and enhancing comprehension.
Creating conceptual maps for weather metaphors facilitates deeper analysis and critical thinking. By visually representing the metaphorical mappings, one can identify nuances in meaning and potential ambiguities. For instance, the metaphor “a sunny disposition” might evoke positive associations like happiness and optimism, but a conceptual map could reveal further layers of meaning, such as superficiality or lack of depth. This deeper analysis enhances critical interpretation and allows for more nuanced understanding of the communicative intent behind the metaphor. Furthermore, conceptual maps can be used to compare and contrast different weather metaphors, highlighting variations in meaning and cultural connotations. Comparing “a cloudy outlook” with “a foggy future” reveals subtle differences in the nature of the uncertainty being described, demonstrating the precision and specificity of metaphorical language.
Understanding the interplay between conceptual mapping and weather metaphors enhances both interpretation and creation of effective figurative language. This analytical approach fosters critical thinking skills and encourages a deeper appreciation for the complexities of language. While challenges arise from the subjective nature of metaphorical interpretation, conceptual mapping provides a structured framework for analysis, promoting clearer communication and a richer understanding of the cognitive processes underlying metaphorical thinking. This approach can also be extended to other types of metaphors, demonstrating its broader applicability in understanding figurative language and its role in shaping thought and communication.
8. Cognitive Processing
Cognitive processing plays a crucial role in both the comprehension and creation of weather metaphors. Understanding how the brain processes these figurative comparisons provides valuable insights into their effectiveness and pervasiveness in communication. The human mind readily connects concrete experiences, like the sensation of warmth from sunshine, to abstract concepts, such as happiness or well-being. This connection, facilitated by cognitive processes, allows for efficient communication by leveraging existing neural pathways and associations. When encountering the phrase “a sunny disposition,” the brain activates networks associated with both sunshine and positive emotions, creating a link between the two. This process, often unconscious, allows for rapid comprehension and emotional engagement with the metaphor. Similarly, when crafting a weather metaphor, individuals draw upon these pre-existing cognitive connections to select appropriate comparisons that effectively convey the intended meaning.
Several cognitive mechanisms contribute to the effectiveness of weather metaphors. Conceptual blending theory suggests that the mind merges elements from the source domain (weather) and the target domain (the abstract concept) to create a new, blended mental space. This blended space incorporates relevant characteristics from both domains, allowing for a richer understanding of the target concept. For example, the metaphor “a storm of controversy” blends the intensity, chaos, and potential for change associated with storms with the abstract concept of controversy, enriching its meaning. Furthermore, embodiment theory suggests that our understanding of abstract concepts is grounded in bodily experiences. The physical sensations associated with weatherthe chill of cold, the warmth of the sun, the pressure of windcontribute to the emotional impact of weather metaphors. These embodied experiences facilitate a deeper, more visceral connection to the metaphor, enhancing its effectiveness.
Understanding the cognitive processes underlying weather metaphors has practical implications for communication, education, and even therapeutic interventions. Recognizing the role of conceptual blending and embodiment can enhance the clarity and impact of communication. Educators can leverage these insights to explain complex concepts using relatable weather metaphors, promoting student understanding. In therapeutic settings, exploring weather metaphors used by clients can provide valuable insight into their emotional states and thought processes. While individual differences in cognitive processing and cultural interpretations can introduce complexities, the fundamental principles remain consistent. Further research exploring the neural underpinnings of metaphorical processing promises to deepen our understanding of the cognitive mechanisms that make weather metaphors such a powerful and pervasive tool in human communication.
9. Literary Device
Weather metaphors function as a powerful literary device, enriching narratives and enhancing communication across various genres. Their effectiveness stems from the universal human experience of weather, allowing writers to tap into shared emotional and sensory associations. Analyzing weather metaphors as a literary device reveals their diverse functions in shaping narratives, conveying complex themes, and creating emotional resonance within the reader.
-
Symbolism and Allegory
Weather metaphors frequently serve symbolic or allegorical functions. A character enduring a “personal storm” might symbolize internal conflict or a challenging life transition. Similarly, a society experiencing a “drought of hope” could allegorically represent a period of political or social stagnation. These symbolic representations add layers of meaning to the narrative, encouraging deeper interpretation and engagement with the text.
-
Character Development
Weather metaphors can contribute significantly to character development. Describing a character’s temperament as “volatile as a thunderstorm” provides insight into their personality and potential for unpredictable behavior. Conversely, a character who “brings sunshine wherever they go” is immediately associated with warmth, positivity, and optimism. These metaphorical descriptions create vivid character portraits, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
-
Setting and Atmosphere
Weather plays a crucial role in establishing setting and atmosphere. A “dark and stormy night” immediately sets a suspenseful or ominous tone, while a “bright, sunny morning” evokes feelings of peace and tranquility. These atmospheric descriptions enhance the reader’s immersion in the narrative world, creating a more visceral and emotional reading experience. The choice of weather metaphor can significantly influence the overall mood and tone of a scene or an entire story.
-
Theme and Motif
Weather metaphors can reinforce thematic concerns or serve as recurring motifs throughout a narrative. A novel exploring themes of loss and grief might consistently employ rain or storms as metaphors for emotional turmoil. This repetition creates a cohesive thematic thread, enhancing the overall impact and meaning of the work. Recognizing these recurring weather metaphors allows the reader to gain a deeper understanding of the author’s intended message.
By examining weather metaphors as a literary device, one gains a deeper appreciation for their versatility and power in shaping narratives. These metaphors function not merely as descriptive tools, but as integral components of storytelling, contributing to character development, thematic exploration, and the creation of immersive narrative worlds. Recognizing their symbolic weight, their ability to convey complex emotions, and their influence on setting and atmosphere allows for richer interpretation and a more profound engagement with literary texts. Further exploration of specific examples across different genres can illuminate the diverse and nuanced applications of weather metaphors as a powerful literary device.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the use and interpretation of weather-related metaphors.
Question 1: How do cultural differences affect the interpretation of weather metaphors?
Cultural variations significantly influence the meaning ascribed to specific weather phenomena. While sunshine often represents positivity, in some cultures, excessive sun can symbolize hardship. Understanding the cultural context is crucial for accurate interpretation.
Question 2: What distinguishes a weather metaphor from a weather simile?
A metaphor directly equates the abstract concept with the weather element (e.g., “a flood of tears”). A simile uses “like” or “as” to draw a comparison (e.g., “crying like rain”).
Question 3: Why are weather metaphors so prevalent in literature?
Weather’s universal impact makes it a readily accessible source domain for conveying complex emotions and themes. Readers easily connect with the sensory and emotional associations of weather phenomena.
Question 4: How can one effectively analyze weather metaphors in a text?
Consider the specific weather element used, its associated cultural connotations, and the target concept it describes. Analyzing the interplay between these elements reveals deeper layers of meaning.
Question 5: Can weather metaphors be overused?
Overreliance on clichd weather metaphors can diminish their impact. Effective use requires careful selection and nuanced application, avoiding predictable or stale comparisons.
Question 6: How does cognitive science inform our understanding of weather metaphors?
Cognitive processes like conceptual blending and embodiment explain how the brain connects concrete sensory experiences of weather to abstract concepts, facilitating comprehension and emotional resonance.
Careful consideration of these frequently asked questions enhances ones ability to interpret and utilize weather metaphors effectively, fostering deeper understanding and richer communication.
Further exploration of specific examples in literature, art, and everyday language will provide a more nuanced appreciation for the power and versatility of weather metaphors.
Tips for Utilizing Weather Metaphors Effectively
Employing weather metaphors effectively requires careful consideration of several factors. These tips provide guidance for maximizing impact and avoiding common pitfalls.
Tip 1: Consider Cultural Context: Interpretations of weather phenomena vary across cultures. Research specific cultural associations before employing a metaphor to ensure appropriate resonance and avoid misinterpretations.
Tip 2: Strive for Originality: Overused metaphors, such as “a storm of controversy,” lose their impact. Seek fresh, less predictable comparisons to create a stronger impression.
Tip 3: Engage Multiple Senses: Incorporate tactile, auditory, and visual details to enhance the metaphor’s impact. “The biting wind of betrayal” is more evocative than simply “betrayal.”
Tip 4: Match Intensity Appropriately: Align the intensity of the weather phenomenon with the intensity of the emotion or concept being described. A “light drizzle of disappointment” differs significantly from a “torrential downpour of grief.”
Tip 5: Maintain Clarity and Conciseness: While descriptive imagery enhances metaphors, excessive detail can obscure the intended meaning. Strive for a balance between evocative language and clear communication.
Tip 6: Analyze Existing Examples: Studying the use of weather metaphors in literature and other forms of communication provides valuable insights into effective techniques and potential pitfalls.
Tip 7: Experiment with Different Figurative Language Devices: Explore various figures of speech, such as similes, personification, and hyperbole, to expand expressive possibilities and refine metaphorical usage.
By implementing these tips, one can harness the power of weather metaphors effectively, enhancing communication and adding depth and resonance to writing and speech. Careful consideration of cultural context, originality, sensory detail, and appropriate intensity ensures that these comparisons resonate with the intended audience, enriching understanding and creating lasting impressions.
The following conclusion synthesizes the key principles discussed and offers final recommendations for maximizing the communicative potential of weather metaphors.
Conclusion
Exploration of figurative language employing meteorological phenomena reveals its significant power in conveying complex concepts through readily accessible sensory experiences. Analysis of cultural variations, symbolic power, descriptive imagery, and cognitive processing underscores the multifaceted nature and communicative potential inherent in these comparisons. Careful consideration of figurative language devices, such as similes, metaphors, and personification, further enhances understanding of their construction and impact.
Continued examination of these linguistic tools promises deeper insights into the intricate relationship between language, thought, and the natural world. Applying the principles discussed offers enhanced communication through more effective utilization and interpretation of metaphorical language. Further research into cross-cultural variations and the cognitive underpinnings of metaphorical thinking remains a valuable pursuit.
