Transformation of linear text information into a songbite

Anticipating When Blackbirds Sing Chinese (Part #4)

[Parts: First | Prev | Next | Last | All] [Links: To-K | From-K | From-Kx | Refs ]

Embedding significance in an image: This is of course a feature of many widely-documented approaches to visualization, especially including mapping techniques. One particular approach of relevance in relation to secure communications is the embedding of information in an image, possibly in addition to any form of encryption, as in steganography. Of interest here with respect to mapping is the variety of concept maps, semantic maps, argument maps, cognitive maps and mind maps.

With respect to the argument here, of relevance is the development and widespread use of techniques based on a QR code (abbreviated from Quick Response Code) as extensively described in Wikipedia.

Examples of QR code
21x21	29x29	57x57

QR code is the trademark for a type of matrix barcode (or two-dimensional barcode) first designed for the automotive industry in Japan. A barcode is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about the item to which it is attached. A QR code uses four standardized encoding modes (numeric, alphanumeric, byte / binary, and kanji) to efficiently store data; extensions may also be used. QR codes can be readily generated through available software.

More specifically, New York City Department of Transportation has installed signage with graphics, each accompanied by a quick response code. The QR code takes scanners to an obliquely explanatory haiku - a short form of poetry, developed in Japan, consisting of only 17 syllables. Each haiku delivers a message aimed at raising safety awareness among drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. The Curbside Haiku is a set of 12 eye-catching designs of which 144 have been installed.

For users of Twitter, there is now a free Twitter Profile QR Code Generator through which identity can be presented via such an image readable by any smartphone.

Embedding significance in a logogram and calligraphy: Of particular interest is the manner in which significance is embedded in Chinese characters, understood as a phonetic system of writing, rather than ideographic (John DeFrancis The Ideographic Myth, 1984)

Examples of Chinese characters -- names of first four hexagrams of I Ching (see Transformation Metaphors derived experimentally from the Chinese Book of Changes -- for sustainable dialogue, vision, conferencing, policy, network, community and lifestyle, 1997)
Creativity	Receptivity	Initial difficulty	Inexperience

Embedding significance in a sound pattern: This is the technique extensively explored within the context of sonification, as noted above. The process could be understood more generally through any form of musical composition.

With regard to the possibility of loading a full MP3 soundtrack into QR Code, the practical answer is no (as separately noted). The amount of data in a digital sound file is too large for QR codes. The solution is to put the sound resource on a public network like Internet and then have the the QR code contain a pointer to the resource. Music can however be listened to via QR codes by providing the codes on any surface offering a link to an internet resource (as described separately).

Embedding significance in a poem: This process calls for little comment. Of greater relevance to this argument is the manner in which significance of strategic relevance can be articulated in poetic form, notably when improvised in poetic exchanges between negotiating parties (Poetry-making and Policy-making: arranging a marriage between Beauty and the Beast, 1993; Poetic Engagement with Afghanistan, Caucasus and Iran: an unexplored strategic opportunity? 2009; Multivocal Poetic Discourse Emphasizing Improvisation: clarification of possibilities for the future, 2012).

Embedding significance in a song: As with poetry, this calls for little comment. With respect to this argument, it is appropriate to note the Beatles song Blackbird (1968), composed as a reaction to racial tensions escalating in the United States in the spring of 1968.

[Parts: First | Prev | Next | Last | All] [Links: To-K | From-K | From-Kx | Refs ]