The author presents accepted definitions of the term metaphor and revi
ews types of metaphors in common usage. He then attempts to elucidate
the purposes behind utilizing psychotherapeutic metaphors and their in
herent value in a therapeutic context. Following a historical survey o
f Abraham Lincoln's life and some examples of his writings and speeche
s, which depict him as a master of metaphor, the reader gains an appre
ciation of Lincoln's ability to translate complex subjects into unders
tandable terms for the citizens of his time-a process not unlike that
of psychotherapy.