Application of the abstractional concept mapping theory for the interpretation of novel metaphor

In this paper, we discuss the current status of an analogy generation environment based on the abstractional concept mapping theory, and in particular, its potential application for interpretation of novel metaphors in natural language processing. Current work involves the ultimate implementation of an integrated analogy generation, learning, and problem-solving environment based on this theory. We discuss here what has been accomplished so far towards this end (a) an initial, partial implementation of the analogy model, (b) implementation of a set of tools for use in the analogy environment, and (c) investigation of the application of such a system as an embedded component of a natural language processing system.