A Study of Visual Schemas in Kamal Nasser's Social Poems based on Johnson's Linguistic Theory
Volume 18, Issue 1, Spring 2026, Pages 51-73
https://doi.org/10.22059/jalit.2025.386304.612897
Seyedeh Sakineh Hosseini, Roghayeh Rostampour Maleki
Abstract One of the fundamental concepts of cognitive linguistics is the concept of image schemas. Schema theory suggests that many of the more complex human concepts are explained by simple empirical patterns. Analyzing image schemas as a critical tool helps us have a more meaningful connection with the outside world. The present study attempts to examine the concepts of three groups of visual schemas, such as volumetric, power, and movement schemas, in Kamal Nasser's poems using Johnson's linguistic approach, using a descriptive-analytical method. And explain the poet's worldview with the help of these schemas. One of Kamal's poetic characteristics is his focus on social themes, which is why he was able to express the state of his society. The results of the research show that the volumetric schema implies concepts such as shared and collective grief. The power schema refers to the occupying enemy, colonization, the establishment of the Jewish state, and resistance. The movement schema also contains the concepts of the return and movement of the Palestinians to their homeland, the advance of death toward them, and the rapid passage of time. And among these types of schemas, the schema of power of the type of obstacle has a more prominent presence. The poet's worldview is also a combination of the struggle for human and social rights, faith in the ability of the mujahideen, intolerance of oppression, and love for society

