Abstract:
This study aims at analyzing LIFE metaphors represented in howto books as well as their functions. Also, it examines the communicative components of howto books. Twelve howto books written by different authors were selected and used as the data of this study. The findings reveal that there are 14 concepts of life reflected by the metaphorical expressions in howto books, namely 1. [LIFE IS A JOURNEY] 2. [LIFE IS A BATTLE / WAR] 3. [LIFE IS A WHOSE VALUE CAN BE INCREASED OR DECREASED THING] 4. [LIFE IS AN EDUCATION] 5. [LIFE IS A CONTAINER / CLOSED OFF AREA] 6. [LIFE IS A TREE] 7. [LIFE IS A SPORT] 8. [LIFE IS A DRAMA] 9. [LIFE IS A BUILDING] 10. [LIFE IS AN NATURAL PHENOMENON] 11. [LIFE IS A SONG] 12. [LIFE IS A COIN] 13. [LIFE IS AN INVESTMENT] and 14. [LIFE IS A THING WITH LENGHT]. These conceptual metaphors reflect 3 aspects of life including; (1) The goals of life are happiness and successful. We should have a good plan for our life. In so doing, knowledge, education, wisdom and dharma are required. (2) We will face both happiness and sadness. Problems and obstacles are simple things in life. We can solve the problems and get rid of obstacles by our own selves (3) We can and should improve our life in order to achieve the goals of life. It is found that every communicative component of howto books are significant. The analysis reveals that LIFE metaphors serve 3 functions. Among these, the function of directing to do or not to do something is the most prominent. The other two functions are explanation and textual functions. The analysis of LIFE metaphors in how to books reveals that these books mostly draw attention to a secular way of life. Thus, the significance of worldly happiness and success is highlighted and a spiritual way of living aiming at the detachment from the material world is ignored.