Semiotics

Semiotics

• Developed by Ferdinand de Saussure who studied how language created meaning
• Language does not reflect reality - meaning is constructed through language
• We make meaning through the creation and interpretation of signs
• Signs can be words, images, sounds, odours, acts…

Signs

Signifier + Signified = Sign

• The signifier is the form which the sign takes
• The signified the concept it represents
• The sign is the total meaning that results from associating the signifier with the signified

Dyer identifies 4 questions to ask of a representation

Little Mix "Cannonball"

Almost a lack of representation because the video only represents Little Mix as what we've already seen on the show

Positive Representation

• Element of success
• Passionate
• Talented

Negative Representation

• Generic (Completely conventional X-Factor video = Promotional material for the original and cover of the song, "Cannonball", but also advertises the X-Factor, intrinsically linking the talent show to the success of the girls)

"Wings"

Incredibly professional air about the video which re-presents Little Mix as a new and interesting act e.g. High-tech effects, layout, setting

• Heavily manufactured
• Styled e.g. Traditional casting: Perri = Lead, Leigh-Anne = Street, Jesse = Tomboy, Jade = Young/Cute

Stylish and attractive

No fragmented body shots = Hardly sexualised (More so that "Cannonball" but not to an overdone level)

Union Jack branding

Saturation of colour

Complete lack of X-Factor, contrasting with "Cannonball"

Change in Albums

• Higher level of maturity
• Darker or more aggressive

"Move"

Conforming to generic Pop music videos style

Representation is slowly developing to convey Little Mix as more mature, sexualised and a product of the music industry