Explanation
The linking of successive discourse units by repeating the end of one unit at the beginning of the next. Narrative carries its final step forward as a transition into the next, making the connection audible.
Example
He went to the river. As he went to the river, he saw smoke.
Counterexample
A random repetition of a word without a linking function is not tail-head linkage.
Distinction
Distinguishing from recurrence: A random word repetition without a linking function is not tail-head linkage.
Effect on thought and perception
Narrative carries its final step forward as a springboard into the next, making the connection audible.
Resonance
Tail-head linkage renders a directed relationship perceptible: Narrative carries its last step as a springboard into the next and makes the connection audible.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Tail-Head Linkage“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-017. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-017The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.