CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS IN ESSIEN OKOKO’S THE BEAUTY OF AFRICAN HERITAGE AND BAYO ADEBOWALE’S LONELY DAYS

Abstract This research sets out to explore conceptual metaphors in Essien Okoko’s The Beauty of African Heritage and Bayo Adebowale’s Lonely Days. It is explored to identify and categorise conceptual metaphors and also contribute to the field of cognitive linguistics. Data for the study was obtained through a purposive sampling technique, selecting passages rich in metaphorical language from both texts. This qualitative analysis was guided by Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT), which argues that metaphors are fundamental to human cognition and are shaped by physical and cultural experiences. Within this framework, the study categorized and analyzed metaphors by mapping their source and target domains, examining how these convey abstract concepts. Findings indicate that both texts employ metaphors rooted in African symbols and societal experiences, such as nature-related metaphors, metaphors of life and death, emotional and psychological state, personal growth and empowerment. These findings conclude that metaphors function as essential tools for expressing shared cultural values and personal challenges in African society. From the conclusion, it recommends that more research should be carried out in other African texts as a way of revealing their importance in language development and cultural values.