Existence is a Location: “The Others” in the Form of Conceptual Metaphor

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/cinej.2023.591

Keywords:

otherness, conceptual metaphor, multimodal metaphor, precarious existence, housing instability

Abstract

The need for a safe, stable, and suitable place of residence is fundamental for human beings. Nevertheless, having such a place, particularly in a city, remains unattainable for too many people. This study aims to examine how “the others” are metaphorically represented in contemporary South Korean films that portray city dwellers struggling to find a place of residence in urban areas and fighting for their existence. The multimodal analysis of conceptual metaphors enabled us to comprehend how the metaphor of EXISTENCE IS A LOCATION emphasized the significance of physical space for one’s being. Furthermore, the vertical movements in visual representations, such as GOOD IS UP, BAD IS DOWN, connect to more abstract meanings of precarious existence, social hierarchy, and otherness.

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Published

2023-12-20

How to Cite

Morgan Mok-Won, P. (2023). Existence is a Location: “The Others” in the Form of Conceptual Metaphor. CINEJ Cinema Journal, 11(2), 498–518. https://doi.org/10.5195/cinej.2023.591

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2023): Winter

Section

Articles

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