This book investigates the nature of metaphor by proposing a philosophical account that challenges existing theories regarding its function and classification. Samuel Guttenplan, a philosopher specializing in the philosophy of mind and language, utilizes a rigorous analytical framework to argue that metaphor is a fundamental component of language rather than a mere stylistic ornament. He constructs a theory capable of addressing syntactic complexity, providing a new perspective on how metaphors operate as distinct theoretic kinds.

Experts in philosophy, linguistics, and cognitive science view this work as a significant contribution to the study of figurative language. Readers frequently note the technical density of the prose, which is intended for an academic audience familiar with contemporary debates in semantics.