The Language of Grief: The Role of Conceptual Metaphors in Family Tributes of Ghanaian Funeral Ceremonies

Abstract This paper investigates the role of conceptual metaphors in the expression of grief by bereaved families during Ghanaian funeral ceremonies. Grief is a universal and inevitable response to loss or the anticipation of it, yet its manifestation varies among different cultures and individuals. In Ghanaian funeral ceremonies, tributes hold significant importance as they provide a platform for family members to publicly convey their emotions and memories associated with the deceased. Tribute texts gathered from twenty funeral brochures were analysed using the Pragglejaz Group’s Metaphor Identification Procedure ( mip ). The analysis revealed the utilisation of twelve distinct conceptual metaphors related to life and death, marriage, and memories and emotions. Two image metaphors about the deceased were also identified. The analysis reveals that families employ conceptual and image metaphors – to offer consolation, provide encouragement, express appreciation for the deceased’s life, engage in reminiscence, honour and celebrate the departed souls.