Full Idea
Two different metaphors for 'argument' (journey, or container) would be consistent if there were a way to completely satisfy both purposes with one clear concept; instead we get coherence, where there is a partial satisfaction of both purposes.
Gist of Idea
Two metaphors for one thing may be coherent, even if inconsistent
Source
G Lakoff / M Johnson (Metaphors We Live By [1980], 16)
A Reaction
As a fan of coherence (as the main criterion of justification) I like this. We grasp the experience of an argument clearly enough, but it is complex, so varied metaphors can highlight different aspects.
Book Reference
Lakoff,G/Johnson,M: 'Metaphors We Live By' [Chicago 2003], p.95