Includes bibliographical references (p. [227]-247) and index.

Section I: Backgrounds and theories ; 1. Approaches to creativity ; 2. Lines and clines: linguistic approaches -- section II: Forms and functions ; 3. Creativity and patterns of talk ; 4. Figures of speech -- section III: Contexts and variations ; 5. Creative language and social context ; 6. Creativity, discourse and social practice -- Epilogue.

"Creativity in language has conventionally been regarded as the preserve of institutionalised discourses such as literature and advertising, and individual gifted minds. Language and Creativity explores the idea that creativity, far from being simply a property of exceptional people, is an exceptional property of all people." "Drawing on a range of real examples of everyday conversations and speech, from flatmates in a student house and families on holiday to psychotherapy sessions and chat-lines, the book argues that creativity is an all-pervasive feature of everyday language. Using close analysis of naturally occurring language, taken from the unique, 5-million-word corpus held at the University of Nottingham, Language and Creativity reveals that speakers commonly make meanings in a variety of creative ways, in a wide range of social contexts and for a diverse set of reasons." "In this book, Ronald Carter builds on previous theories of creativity, and offers a radical contribution to linguistic, literary and cultural theory. A must for anyone interested in the creativity of our everyday speech."--BOOK JACKET.

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