The metaphor can be powerful, depending on how it is used. It can subtly, or unsubtly, explain abstract social concepts or complicated ideas. Used with other rhetorical devices, they can clarify a concept significantly or obscure it to the point of oblivion. In these fourteen essays their contributors prove that the metaphor is also an important cognitive tool. They cover metaphors in social and personality psychology, current issues in the use of metaphors, and directions in further research. Annotation ©2014 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)