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6.2 Co-operative Positive and Negative Alignments
To begin with I will start with two excerpts which clearly illustrate both
negative and positive alignments in their respective settings. Furthermore, each
of these excerpts can be regarded as fairly exemplary of sociable conversation
in each respective milieu (see Chapters 2 and 5). In terms of the organisation of
the data here and under subsequent headings, I shall present and consider
English and German conversational data separately. The aim however is not to
have a series of parallel analytical sections or chapters but rather to aid the
pursuit of a comparative stance. For this reason, even though the data will be
treated under separate sub-headings, much of the discussion will include
frequent cross-referencing of observations and findings from each data set.
In terms of the specific research questions set out in chapter four, my
intent here is to identify, compare, and contrast the conversational manifestation
of the alignment contingencies set out in fig 6.1. Although, as I noted in chapter
three, my main analytical focus and comparative discussion shall focus on the
concept of self in talk (see Chapters 7 and 8), the work here should also aid in
understanding the nature of alignment practices in each culture at the level of
conversational claims.
Let us begin then by turning first to positive and negative alignments as
evidenced in English sociable conversation.
In the following extract TM&LM, and KJ&LJ (parental couples
respectively) are chatting over dinner about a common topic - that of having
children and the need sometimes to get away from them. This short excerpt
demonstrates both positive and negative alignments as solidaric and
individuated claims are made in the process of developing 'Time away from the
Kids'.
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