Previous
Hyperbole
Definition of Idiom
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the words in the phrase. For... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on a literal interpretation of the... read full definition
An idiom is a phrase that conveys a figurative meaning that is difficult or impossible to understand based solely on... read full definition
Key Examples in A Visit from the Goon Squad
Chapter 13: Pure Language
Explanation and Analysis—Lulu's Language:
Chapter 13 of A Visit from the Goon Squad focuses on the evolution of language in the near future, particularly as it is influenced by the technological age. Idioms and metaphors within this "pure language" indeed expose a generational divide between Alex and Lulu as they work on Bennie's social media campaign.
Partway through Chapter 13, Alex and Lulu communicate through their handsets using both oral and written speech. As they speak, they face gaps between their two languages, and Lulu corrects Alex when he uses obsolete phrases:
"No one says 'viral' anymore," Lulu said. "I mean, maybe thoughtlessly, the way we still say 'connect' or 'transmit'—those old mechanical metaphors that have nothing to do with how information travels."
Related Themes:
