Poetry and Metaphor

We begin this chapter by defining poetic metaphor and the methodology we employ in our empirical study of metaphor comprehension: the use of (1) a verbal report regarding the unfolding process of metaphor comprehension, coupled with (2) a microgenetic procedure for presenting the poetic text. We then present our Gestalt-Interaction Theory of Metaphor, addressing previous research that informs this approach. The Gestalt-Interaction Theory of Metaphor delineates the potentialities for different ways of reading a poetic metaphor as a Gestalt, with a particular focus on bidirectionality as comprising an integral part of this interactive process. To facilitate this discussion, we present our reading of the poem “The Bait”, by the English metaphysical poet John Donne. Subsequently, we consider two problems that require further study: (1) the way that embodied cognition in its various forms (including physiognomic perception and synesthesia) comprises an integral aspect of poetic metaphor; and (2) the relationship between the grotesque and the tension that exists between the two subjects of a metaphor. We then continue with a comparison of our approach with Blending Theory. To facilitate this discussion, we present our reading of the poem “Oread”, by the American Imagist poet H.D., which has previously been analyzed using Blending Theory. As we emphasize, the major distinction between these two different approaches is that the Gestalt-Interaction Theory of Metaphor suggests a variety of possible readings indicative of bidirectionality – including the reading proposed by Blending Theory. We then propose avenues for future research concerning the experiential nature – as a potentiality for a specific experience, and its actual occurrence while reading the poetic text – by focusing on two aspects: (1) blending; and (2) the grotesque, which includes the concept of embodied cognition.