The Babushka Principle in Semiotics: Connotation, Motivation, and Metatheory

Abstract

In this chapter, we introduce the idea of what we call the semiotic Babushka Principle (sign systems within sign systems) presented by Louis Hjelmslev. We discuss the implications of applying this principle to the analysis of music and musical scores. We argue that, through the conceivably infinite mapping of connotational systems, music is capable of accomplishing significant symbolic depth.