Using Pictorial Language: A Discussion of the Dimensions of the Problem

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the diversity and complexity of pictorial language, and real communication problems related to it. Pictorial language has already been discussed briefly in relation to aural and visual language, and it has been suggested that it forms a part of the visual branch called graphic. In any situation where graphic language is used, other factors, most of them nongraphic, have also to be taken into account. It is suggested that all graphic language should be considered within an operational framework that identifies the following variable factors: purpose, information content, configuration, mode, means of production, resources, users, and circumstances of use. Pictorial language differs from verbal language by being universally effective; therefore, it may be necessary to remind oneself that there are strong cultural differences in picture-making. Cross-cultural problems clearly have most bearing on the user variable, though they should be taken into account when considering other factors, including information content and configuration (c).