Metaphor, Cancer and the End of Life

This book examines metaphors related to cancer and end-of-life experiences, offering insights into their impact on communication and care practices.

This book explores the methodology, findings, and implications of a comprehensive corpus-based study focused on the metaphors associated with cancer and the end of life in contemporary UK society. It delves into how metaphors serve as a crucial linguistic and cognitive tool that shapes our understanding and communication surrounding sensitive experiences such as illness and mortality. By examining the ways in which these metaphors can both facilitate and obstruct effective communication, the book provides valuable insights into the complexities of discussing topics that are often fraught with emotion and uncertainty.

The study is grounded in a 1.5-million-word corpus, which includes interviews and online forum discussions from three key stakeholder groups: patients with advanced cancer, their unpaid carers, and healthcare professionals. This diverse range of perspectives enables a rich qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metaphors used in these contexts. The findings highlight the intricate relationship between language, thought, and emotional experience, shedding light on the role of metaphor in shaping perceptions of illness and end-of-life care.

Metaphor, Cancer and the End of Life not only contributes to metaphor theory and analysis but also offers practical implications for training and practice in cancer care and hospice settings. By combining qualitative insights with innovative corpus linguistic methods, the book serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in the intersection of language, health, and emotional well-being.