Spatial metaphors in African‐American discourse

Abstract

Three orators’ speeches are analyzed for their use of relational, locational and directional types of spatial metaphors. Frances Harper utilized all three types in her call for elemental justice. Mordecai Johnson blended directional with locational metaphors to recreate the African‐American's journey. Louis Lomax employed literal space as evidence for his metaphorical generalizations about racial pride and responsibility. The essay concludes by examining the potential importance of understanding symbolic space for critics of African‐American discourse.