Subtext
Subtext is any content of a creative work which is not announced explicitly by the characters or author, but is implicit or becomes something understood by the observer of the work. Subtext has been used historically to imply controversial subjects without drawing the attention, or wrath, of censors. This has been especially true in comedy, but it is also common in science fiction, where it can be easier and safer to make social critiques if it is set in a time other than the (author's) present.
Definition
Subtext is content "under", and hence, "sub", or hidden beneath, the actual dialog or text. To gather subtext the audience must "read between the lines" or infer meaning. This activity is crucial to a clear and accurate understanding of the word. If a meaning is stated explicitly, it is by definition not subtext, because it is no longer hidden. In fact, writers are often criticized for the failure to artfully create and use subtext. Such writing is faulted for being too "on the nose", meaning the characters always mean what they actually say. Among other things, this robs the text of dramatic tension and can make the whole piece feel boring and obvious.[1]
Subtext is often also inserted in narratives where explicit themes are unable to be shown or expressed due to the desire to appeal to a general audience. Examples are sexual or other adult references in a story nominally marketed to children. Their inclusion does not register to the children but the adults understand and appreciate that content is included for them as audience members.
Subtext is not costumes, set pieces, or design, although these cultural cues may create an atmosphere for understanding and interpreting the subtext.
See also
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Look up subtext in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. |
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- Concision
- Connotation – Cultural or emotional association that some word or phrase carries, in addition to the word's or phrase's explicit or literal meaning
- Dramatic irony
- Exformation
- Iceberg theory
- Innuendo
- Implication
- Meta-communication
- Pragmatics – Branch of linguistics and semiotics relating context to meaning
- Speech act – Utterance that serves a performative function
- Steganography – Hiding messages in other messages
References
- Seger, Linda (November 1, 2011). "Chapter 1: Subtext: Definition and Exploration". Writing Subtext. Studio City,CA: Michael Wiese Production. ISBN 978-1-932907-96-4.
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