Communication Expressions

Metaphor for Conflict

Set 1:

Your actions are completely indefensible. He attacked me where I was most vulnerable - my kids. That criticism is right on target. Okay, shoot!

Accusations were hurled back and forth.  I just retreat.  I fall back and regroup.  Then I wait for an opening. He slaughters me when I cry and get confused. When I don't want it to come to blow (laughs), I launch a diversionary attack, like telling him the kids are calling me.

WAR

The scene for conflict is battlefield. The participants in discussion are warriors who must win the battle.  Nothing falls short of "killing" or reducing the effectiveness of the opponent.  The purpose or outcome is inevitably a reduction of players, harm, desire for vengeance and a repetition of the battle.

Set 2:

He's about to blow up.  Any little thing will set him off.  Larry's got a short fuse.  The pressure's building up so fast that something's gotta give soon!  I just need to let off steam.  She is really pushing my buttons.

EXPLOSION

Set 3:

He's got the best case.  The jury's still out on that one.  You're accusing me of what?  She's the guilty party on this one. 

TRIAL

Set 4:

I'm on a sinking ship with no lifeboat.  I'm traveling a rocky road.  I'm working with a checkbook that won't balance.

STRUGGLE

Set 5:

I felt like being "a rowboat caught in a hurricane.  Tornado,

Avalanche

I was swept away,

Like a fire raging out of control.

ACT OF NATURE