Communication between doctor and patient is examined in relation to ways of
describing the institution of medicine, the rules of engagement between do
ctor and patient, and the language they employ. Medicine and its institutio
ns are presented in metaphorical terms, a theatrical taxonomy of consultati
ons between patient and doctor is suggested; and patient-doctor communicati
on is considered in the light of the pervasiveness of mistranslation. Becau
se if is possible to invent a wide range of alternative metaphors for medic
al institutions, to envisage many different sorts of dramatic possibilities
in;the patient-doctor encounter, and to develop a respect for the particul
arity of all language, optimism is expressed about the future of research,
teaching and practice in doctor-patient communication. (C) 2000 Elsevier Sc
ience Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.