The power and limitations of words
The power and limitations of words
Communication requires sometimes more than straight language. Metaphors, symbols, rituals and stories all have their place. They enrich conversation and enable perhaps a difficult message to be conveyed. Such devices are tools for touching life at the deepest level. The nature and value of metaphors and rituals is discussed and stories and examples of their use are given. Actions, sometimes quite simple in themselves, can be signs of deep things, especially when they are embedded in traditions. They can be symbols of rites of passage and celebration. Ritual often adds dignity to an event or a community. Encounter beyond words can be the agent of the deepest form of contact. Vivid examples are given. The chapter concludes with a comment about the importance of silence and allowing it to occur without discomfort or lack of ease. Counsellors and carers should develop the capacity to listen with understanding to what is not said as well as what is.
Keywords: metaphor, rituals, encounter, silence, narrative, dignity, counsellor
Oxford Scholarship Online requires a subscription or purchase to access the full text of books within the service. Public users can however freely search the site and view the abstracts and keywords for each book and chapter.
Please, subscribe or login to access full text content.
If you think you should have access to this title, please contact your librarian.
To troubleshoot, please check our FAQs , and if you can't find the answer there, please contact us .
