The Complexity of Compound Figures of Speech

Book excerpt: Dive into the intricate world of compound figures of speech with this groundbreaking volume. Exploring hyperbolic metaphor, hyperbolic irony, and ironic metaphor, this book delves into the complexities of these expressions, revealing its nuanced meanings driven by contextual factors. Through thought-provoking research questions, readers uncover the logical, psychological, and temporal order of interpretation behind these compound figures. Proposing a complexity theory paradigm, the book offers a fresh perspective on their analysis, arguing for a context-dependent approach. Drawing on experimental evidence involving 155 participants, it demonstrates how factors such as language proficiency and sociocultural knowledge influence the cognitive complexity of compound figures. With insights into the flexible nature of interpretation and the interplay of contextual attractors and salience, this book reshapes our understanding of figurative language. The book paves the way for further exploration into the rich tapestry of compound figures and their impact on communication.