Monday, February 18, 2013

Reading the Signs - Semiotics

Semiotics: the study of signs and sign processes (semiosis), indication, designation, likeness, analogy, metaphor, symbolism, signification, and communication - definition courtesy of Wikipedia.

Though Semiotics can be defined, I feel like it is an extremely broad concept to understand and to fully cover. What it means to me, is what brand I instantly think of when I hear of a particular product, or what brand I associate with specific images or places. Semiotics to me means relativity to a product, synonymy with a brand or lifestyle.


 One example of such symbolism is Disneyland representing childhood and happiness. Invent something that children adore and their parents will happily pay you a fortune. The entire Disney brand is synonymous with children, innocence, and bliss.






Another example of symbolism is perfume with romance. Apparently if you smell like Ralph Lauren, you will have a handsome man frolicking with you in a field. This relation with smelling good leading to a romantic relationship is an example of semiotics in the works,  convincing the masses that smelling good = landing a stud.




 This video commercial is an example of Smirnoff being the alcohol of choice in representing the party lifestyle. Smirnoff indicates a good time, women, and being the life of the party.

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