| The linguistic and cognitive dimensions of proverb use among the members of the a transnational social network of Mexicans immigrants based in Chicago, Illinois and their pseudonymous village of origin, Janacuaro, Michoacan, Mexico were examined. Proverbs were analyzed at the structural and functional levels in order to uncover the interrelatedness of the mental and social skills involved in the processing of non-literal expressions. The analysis of the basic characteristics of the proverbs shows that proverbs are used to effect or redirect social and communicative behavior in this particular social network.; The following hypothesis is set forth as a result of this study: Proverbs are used in this social network to effect four general social purposes: (1) to censure, (2) to teach, (3) to establish rapport, and (4) to entertain. These functions serve to promote intra-group solidarity through the (re)affirmation of cultural and interpersonal bonds.; Furthermore, the cognitive processes involved in the comprehension of the proverbs analyzed reveals the use of complex cognitive skills among the members of this ethnic minority social network. It is suggested that many non-mainstream students come to writing-instruction classrooms with such skills and that the writing tasks required of these students can become more meaningful and dynamic for them if the oral traditions of these students are acknowledged and valued as legitimate and rich communicative strategies. |
