The effort and intricacies of generating experience-near language

In this paper I explore Clifford Geertz’s distinction between experience-near and experience- distant language. In the process, I draw from mad studies and mental health service user epistemology, both written and generated through my work. I also draw on the work of the historian of emotion Tiff...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: David Newman
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Dulwich Centre Foundation 2024-03-01
Series:International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work
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Online Access:https://dulwichcentre.com.au/the-effort-and-intricacies-of-generating-experience-near-language-david-newman/
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Summary:In this paper I explore Clifford Geertz’s distinction between experience-near and experience- distant language. In the process, I draw from mad studies and mental health service user epistemology, both written and generated through my work. I also draw on the work of the historian of emotion Tiffany Watt Smith. Three specific practices in relation to language use are proposed: how we can invigorate the agency or meaning-making in language use; how we can use language to assist people to become familiar with, not alienated from, their experience; and how we might name and question the values or obligations that get smuggled in with emotion talk. I also provide three exercises to explore these themes.
ISSN:2981-8818