Conceptual Metaphors of The Nation in Thai Leader’s New Year Speeches

Abstract

This article aims to examine conceptual metaphors of the nation in New Year speeches delivered by Thai leader. The data comprise nine speeches collected from the Royal Thai Government’s official website and the “คำกล่าวสุนทรพจน์” playlist on the “ไทยคู่ฟ้า ทำเนียบรัฐบาล” YouTube channel, analyzed using the conceptual metaphor theory proposed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980). The findings reveal that metaphorical expressions used to convey the concept of the nation in the New Year speeches by General Prayut Chan-o-cha from 2015 to 2023 reflect five types of conceptual metaphors: 1) THE NATION IS A FAMILY, 2) THE NATION IS A TRAVELER, 3) THE NATION IS A BATTLEFIELD, 4) THE NATION IS A CONSTRUCTION, and 5) THE NATION IS A MACHINE. These metaphors embody various perspectives of the Thai leader on the nation. For example, the nation is depicted as a large family characterized by love, unity, and strong bonds between citizens and the leader; a traveler overcoming obstacles to achieve peace and prosperity; a battlefield confronting threats and challenges; a construction requiring collaborative building, restoration, and sustainable development; and a machine relying on the harmonious functioning of its components to move forward. The use of conceptual metaphors in these speeches not only reflects the leader’s vision for governance but also serves as a powerful political communication tool, evoking emotional resonance and fostering a sense of collective responsibility among citizens. Furthermore, it enhances the public image of the Thai leader and constitutes a linguistic strategy for conveying ideologies embedded in these speeches.