Code Type |
"voice" |
Description |
Notes |
Example |
Hermeneutic (HER) |
Truth |
The generation of mysteries, questions, or enigmas that must be explained such that "all loose ends are tied" |
The hermeneutic is a major driving force in plot dynamics, and there are numerous techniques for suspending the resolution of an enigma |
Who is Darth Vader? |
Proairetic (ACT) |
Empirics |
Codes that generate action; in a sense: observable action; implicit is that all actions must conclude... |
Many uses of ACT codes have a similar effect as HER, creating tension, expectation, drawing one through |
"I started to read the sign..." |
Semantic/Semic Connotative (SEM) |
Person |
Codes that create meaning by connotation; often generates character or motif |
Almost anything can be made to carry some portent, build into a motif, for instance |
GRN: trees, well, etc., wood, water "We glided across the town square" |
Symbolic (SYM) |
Symbol |
Codes that create meaning by reference to, us. Preexisting symbols, us. Oppositions, familiar/archetypal themes |
These are in a sense, higher order semantics |
Nature / civilization, inside /outside |
Cultural (REF) |
Science ("knowing") Bodies of knowledge |
Reference to/dependence on certain bodies of knowledge to carry meaning "alongside" the text |
It's clear with this type in particular how much the codes overlap |
Novel genres, etc., famous people, name-dropping, |
Each identified use of a code can usually be named as being a certain type of use.
For instance: the HER codes can be given a name for the enigma that is introduced; every other device that relates to that same enigma can then be identified with it.
ACT codes can be sorted by familiar types of activity: going to sleep, entering a room, looking. Those actions that fall into the same category can be seen as related.
SEM codes might be identified as making use of ready-made types: wise old man references, dirty old man references, silly old man references, etc.
And so on.