Lakoff and Johnson (1999) saw that there are many proverbs and sayings that have to do with form characteristics and emotions. Upwards / rising / increasing: becoming important, conceited, richer, making things positive. Downwards / falling / getting smaller: worsen, giving up, no chance, despondent, making things negative, poorer.

Simonds (1983) connects a rising composition with optimism, success and happy feelings, falling with pessimism, defeat and depression.