This is the first book I've read for my dissertation and I've found it very interesting. The book takes the same approach of a dictionary or thesaurus, after an Introduction it presents various methods of using symbolism to convey a deeper meaning. I quite like the book, however it does seem a bit formulaic and concentrates more on the practical side of things than the theory. The book is very interesting however and presents a good number of examples of the symbolic meanings of mise en scene, composition, costume etc.
Smith, P. J., 2010. Symbols. Images. Codes. The secret language of meaning in film, tv, games and visual media. Studio City. Michael Wise Productions.
One of the interesting points in this book raises is that the 'secret language' of symbolism is a universal one that can be understood by many people from many different cultures.
"In our multicultural, instantaneously interconnected global village, we speak hundreds of languages and thousands of dialects with diverse and specific cultural backgrounds. How can we communicate effectively across all these borders? Symbols and images affect people emotionally - hence their exceptional effectiveness. Because there is no particular rational attachment to them, visuals are a universal language that engages out intuition and imagination." page - x
It also argues that making use of symbolism in a story will heighten it's impact and help it convey it's meaning more effectively.
"The more consciously you use symbols , images and codes in your stories, the more effective your message will be. Using appropriate visuals will heighten the emotional impact of your story and will connect your audience to the rich stream of meaning - conscious and unconscious - that flows through humanity and our arts." page - xi
I also stress the importance of visual communication within society.
"Communication is the most important aspect of human interaction, and it is accomplished in a number of ways, from utilitarian to artistic. Some of the most primitive yet still most effective modes of communication are visual - that's just how are brains are wired." page - ix
"Our written and spoken communications can span the globe in seconds, but each individual, each culture, and each interest group will process such communication through a distinct set of identifiers and interpretations. One very effective way past these barriers to use visuals. Some are so universal as to be understood anywhere by anyone. Others require some cultural background. As media creator, you can make good use of the wide range of symbols, images and codes to enhance your meaning and enrich your stories" page- 104
The book goes into detail about what certain symbols could mean and gives examples how they have been used in films and other media.
It also explains how symbolism can make a story more compelling and interesting by adding depth.
"We're all living, breathing, fighting, and dying for something. Or certainly your characters should be; otherwise they'll be deadly boring. How do you show the concepts of freedom, equality, loyalty, spiritual aspiration? This is where symbols and images come to the rescue and plug you audience into those universal streams of meaning and make your media about more than just the plot line." - page 106
