Emotional Understanding

By Fiona Kinsey (Clinical Support Worker)

Since ancient times, poets have used metaphors to evoke emotions in the reader. This enables the expression of abstract ideas by relating them to familiar or everyday objects. Layers of meaning are captured in words that can be open to interpretation depending on the readers life experience.

With their permission, I am sharing someone’s experience that symbolises aspects of their grief.

From waking in the morning, the moment their feet touch the ground they experience the physical and emotional state of being in an ocean. Unable to stand on the seabed, they constantly tread water. This stops them from going under but, in turn, is exhausting. There are waves to contend with and currents to battle, that approach without warning. The constant motion can make you feel nausea. The fear and uncertainty can be overwhelming and isolating.

Upon hearing this description, I gained insight into this person’s emotional state in the wake of them adjusting to the death of a loved one. As they spoke, the emotions resonated in me. Metaphors can help a person gain a vivid and deeper understanding of a situation, helping the listener feel empathically and allowing a person’s experience the understanding and validation that it deserves. Whilst the story is not an exact representation of what is happening, they have conveyed how the grief is affecting them using powerful imagery. This can help the listener relate and reflect on the speaker’s experience. The comparisons can allow us to have a deeper understanding and emotional connection with that person. The sharing of stories and metaphors can resonate with others who may have had a similar experience that was difficult to fully articulate.

Returning to the original metaphor can also bring learning to the experience or a shift in perspective. What happens when the sea is calm, can we engage in floating and a rest from the constant struggle? Is there a Lifebuoy? Could we explore underneath the waves? Could we swim to shore?  

Metaphors and symbols can be useful tools that help us to understand our experience, process complex emotions, navigate change and build resilience. It can be a safe way to help piece ourselves back together after difficult and painful times.