Vision as Meaning

Abstract

As William Blake (1978 [1810]: 1019), the poet and visual artist, wrote, both in painting and in poetry, the visual form can represent the conscious intention of the artist. The writing system, as I am going to argue in this study, not only refers to the conventions which record semantic and phonological content, but also covers a wider range of semiotic representations. These include the use of different kinds of typeface, spacing, indentation and layout, and they all have visual, graphic and conceptual effects. This wider sense of the writing system plays a crucial role in the way a poem is put on the page. Not only does it provide resources for the visual shape and structure of the poem, it can also influence the interpretation of the poem.¹

Not a line is drawn without intention & that most discriminate & particular. As Poetry admits not a Letter that is Insignificant So Painting admits not a Grain of Sand or a Blade of Grass Insignificant, much less an Insignificant Blur or Mark.

William Blake (1978 [1810])