Lexia Analysis: Script Output
Outlined below is a read-out from a python script (see README) emulating Roland Barthes’ step-by-step method, enumerated in his well-known book S/Z, to ‘star the text’ into lexia (small reading units).
The goal is not to recover one ‘true’ structure, but to show how meaning is produced: how motifs recur, how oppositions (inside/outside, life/death) frame scenes, how actions and enigmas pace reading, and how cultural knowledge leaks in as referential cues. Barthes describes this as weaving five codes (or ‘voices’) across the text: hermeneutic (HER), proairetic (ACT), semic (SEM), symbolic (SYM), and referential (REF). He treats them as interlacing line rather than a single hierarchy.
Let us designate as hermeneutic code (HER) all the units whose function it is to articulate in various ways a question, its response, and the variety of chance events which can either formulate the question or delay its answer; or even, constitute an enigma and lead to its solution. […] Although every unit we mention here will be a signifier … [w]e shall call this element … a seme (semantically, the seme is the unit of the signifier) and we shall indicate these units by the abbreviation SEM, designating each time by an approximate word the connotative signifier referred to in the lexia […O]n the symbolic level, an immense province appears, the province of the antithesis, of which 17this forms the first unit, linking at the start its two adversative terms (A/B) in the word daydream. (We shall mark all the units in this symbolic area with the letters SYM. …) […] In Aristotelian terms, in which praxis is linked to proairesis, or the ability rationally to determine the result of an action, we shall name this code of actions and behavior proairetic (in narrative, however, the discourse, rather than the characters, determines the action). This code of actions will be abbreviated ACT; furthermore, since these actions produce effects, each effect will have a generic name giving a kind of title to the sequence […Finally, a unit formed] by a gnomic code, and this code is one of the numerous codes of knowledge or wisdom to which the text continually refers; we shall call them in a very general way cultural codes (even though, of course, all codes are cultural), or rather, since they afford the discourse a basis in scientific or moral authority, we shall call them reference codes (REF. Gnomic code) (Barthes, S/Z, pp.17-18; emphasis added)
Barthes’ approach to the text purposefully breaks the ‘natural’ flow of narration to create these observational spaces, then tracks how the five codes interweave to produce a structuration rather than expose one master structure.
The following is a read-out of the lexia self-produced by the script (using an LLM API). This can be contrasted with a version that uses Roland Barthes’ original 12 lexia (for the same paragraph). An overview of the coding, reproduction of the Balzac paragraph and overall aims are given in the README index card.
Lexia (1-40) from Automated Script
[1] I was deep in one of those daydreams which
HER ✓ Introduces an enigma about the nature of the daydream: I was deep in one of those daydreams
ACT ✓ Indicates the action of daydreaming: I was deep in
SEM ✓ deep, daydreams | Motifs: daydream, depth
SYM ✓ Contrasts deep thought with implied shallow surroundings
Oppositions: depth vs. shallowness
REF —
Domains —
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Mental absorption; Contrast between inner and outer worlds; Universality of daydreaming; Potential for revelation or insight
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This opening lexia sets up a contrast between the narrator’s inner mental state and the external social environment. It hints at a rich inner life that exists alongside, and perhaps in opposition to, the social world, suggesting a theme of duality that may be explored further.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=0
[2] overtake even the shallowest of men, in the midst of the most tumultuous parties.
HER ✓ Enigma of the nature and cause of the daydream
ACT —
SEM ✓deep, shallowest, tumultuous | Motifs: depth, shallowness, tumult
SYM ✓ Contrasts internal state with external environment | deep, shallowest, tumultuous
Oppositions: deep vs shallow, calm vs tumultuous
REF ✓ Alludes to high society parties and mental states
tumultuous parties, daydreams
Domains: social gatherings, psychology
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Introspection amidst social chaos; Universality of reverie; Contrast between inner and outer worlds; Depth of thought in shallow individuals
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia establishes a tension between the narrator’s internal mental state and the external social environment. It suggests a moment of profound reflection occurring paradoxically in an unlikely setting, hinting at the complexity of human consciousness.
Code strengths: HER=1, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=3, REF=2
[3] Midnight had just sounded from the clock of the Elysée-Bourbon.
HER ✓ The precise time creates suspense, suggesting something significant may occur. | Midnight had just sounded
ACT ✓ The sounding of the clock marks a temporal shift in the narrative. | Midnight had just sounded
SEM ✓ Midnight, Elysée-Bourbon | Motifs: time, aristocracy
SYM ✓ Midnight symbolizes a transition from one day to the next, potentially from known to unknown. | Midnight
Oppositions: day vs night
REF ✓ References Parisian high society and precise timekeeping. Elysée-Bourbon, clock
Domains: Parisian landmarks, timekeeping
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Temporal precision; Aristocratic setting; Threshold moment; Auditory cue
Sensory fields: auditory=clock sounding
Commentary: This lexia establishes a precise moment in time and space, creating a sense of anticipation. It transitions from the previous lexia’s reflection on human nature to a specific setting, potentially setting the stage for upcoming events.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=3
[4] Seated in a window recess and
HER ✓ The lexia sets up a hidden observer, creating suspense about what will be seen. | Seated in a window recess and
ACT ✓ The narrator positions themselves for observation. Seated
SEM ✓ window recess, silk curtain | Motifs: window recess, silk curtain
SYM ✓ The narrator is hidden inside, looking out. | hidden behind, window recess
Oppositions: hidden vs visible, inside vs outside
REF ✓ Evokes upper-class Parisian interiors.
window recess, silk curtain
Domains: architecture, interior design
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Narrator as hidden observer; Luxurious interior setting; Threshold between inside and outside; Preparation for voyeuristic scene
Sensory fields: visual=window recess, silk curtain; tactile=silk
Commentary: This lexia establishes the narrator’s vantage point, creating a sense of secrecy and privileged observation. It sets up a contrast between the interior luxury and the exterior scene about to be described, while positioning the narrator as a hidden spectator.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[5] hidden behind the sinuous folds of a silk curtain, I could contemplate at my leisure the garden of the mansion where I was
HER ✓ The narrator’s hidden position creates mystery about their purpose and identity. | hidden behind, I could contemplate
ACT ✓ The narrator is observing the garden from a concealed position.
contemplate at my leisure
SEM ✓ silk curtain, mansion, hidden behind, contemplate | Motifs: luxury, secrecy, voyeurism
SYM ✓ The narrator is inside looking out, hidden while observing the visible.
hidden behind, contemplate, garden
Oppositions: hidden vs visible, inside vs outside
REF ✓ Evokes high society and wealth through architectural and fabric details.
silk curtain, mansion, garden
Domains: aristocratic architecture, textile luxury
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Secretive observation; Luxurious setting; Insider/outsider dynamic; Leisure and privilege
Sensory fields: visual=garden, mansion, silk curtain; tactile=silk
Commentary: This lexia establishes a voyeuristic narrative perspective, positioning the narrator as a hidden observer in a luxurious setting. It creates tension between the interior space of concealment and the exterior space being observed, suggesting themes of social boundaries and privileged access.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[6] spending the evening.
HER ✓ The phrase implies an ongoing event, creating suspense about what will unfold during the evening. | spending the evening
ACT ✓ The action of spending time is implied, suggesting a duration of events to come. | spending
SEM ✓ spending the evening | Motifs: leisure, social gathering
SYM —
REF ✓ The phrase evokes the cultural practice of evening social gatherings among the upper class. | spending the evening
Domains: social customs, upper-class leisure
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Temporal setting; Social context; Anticipation of events
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This brief lexia serves as a temporal anchor, situating the narrator’s observations within the context of an evening event. It bridges the narrator’s hidden position described in the previous lexia with the atmospheric description that follows, creating a sense of continuity and anticipation.
Code strengths: HER=1, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=0, REF=2
[7] The trees, partially covered with snow, stood out dimly against the grayish background of a cloudy sky, barely whitened by the moon. Seen amid these fantastic surroundings, they vaguely resembled ghosts half out of their shrouds, a gigantic representation of the famous Dance of the Dead.
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ snow, cloudy sky, moon, ghosts, shrouds | Motifs: winter, night, ghostliness
SYM ✓ The trees symbolize a transition between life and death, reality and fantasy. | vaguely resembled ghosts, Dance of the Dead
Oppositions: life vs death, reality vs fantasy
REF ✓ Alludes to the medieval allegory of the Dance of Death. Dance of the Dead
Domains: art history, folklore
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Eerie winter nightscape; Blurring of natural and supernatural; Allusion to macabre artistic tradition; Liminal space between life and death
Sensory fields: visual=snow, grayish, cloudy sky, moon, trees, ghosts
Commentary: This lexia creates a haunting visual tableau that sets the stage for a surreal narrative experience. The transition from the previous lexia’s mundane ‘evening’ to this ghostly scene, and the hint at a contrasting ‘Dance of the Living’ to follow, suggests a narrative structure built on stark juxtapositions.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=3, REF=2
[8] Then, turning in the other direction, I could admire the Dance of the Living!
HER ✓ The phrase ‘Dance of the Living’ creates an enigma, contrasting with the previous ‘Dance of the Dead’. | Dance of the Living
ACT ✓ The narrator performs a physical action of turning. | turning in the other direction
SEM ✓ admire, Dance of the Living | Motifs: admiration, dance, life
SYM ✓ The ‘Dance of the Living’ contrasts with the previous ‘Dance of the Dead’, suggesting a movement from outside to inside. Dance of the Living
Oppositions: death vs life, outside vs inside
REF ✓ The ‘Dance of the Living’ likely refers to a lively social gathering or ball.
Dance of the Living
Domains: social gatherings, entertainment
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Transition from death to life imagery; Narrator’s physical and perceptual shift; Contrast between exterior and interior scenes; Anticipation of a social event
Sensory fields: visual=Dance of the Living
Commentary: This lexia marks a pivotal transition from the gloomy, death-associated exterior to a lively interior scene. The narrator’s physical turn mirrors a thematic shift, preparing the reader for a stark contrast in atmosphere and setting.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=3, REF=1
[9] a splendid salon decorated in silver and
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ splendid, silver and gold | Motifs: luxury, opulence, grandeur
SYM ✓ Silver and gold symbolize wealth and refinement silver and gold
Oppositions: precious vs common
REF ✓ Evokes the lavish decor of upper-class gatherings
splendid salon
Domains: aristocratic interiors, Parisian high society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Opulence of the setting; Social status of the occupants; Contrast with the outside world
Sensory fields: visual=splendid, silver, gold
Commentary: This lexia introduces the interior setting, contrasting with the previous mention of ‘the Dance of the Living’. The opulent description suggests a transition from exterior to interior, hinting at a socially exclusive space.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[10] gold, with glittering chandeliers,
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ gold, glittering chandeliers | Motifs: opulence, luminosity
SYM ✓ The glittering chandeliers symbolize illumination and revelation glittering chandeliers
Oppositions: light vs dark
REF ✓ Evokes the lavish decor of high society gatherings gold, glittering chandeliers
Domains: aristocratic interior design, 18th/19th century luxury
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Extravagant wealth; Brilliance and radiance; Social prestige; Artificial illumination
Sensory fields: visual=gold, glittering chandeliers
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of an opulent salon, emphasizing its luminous quality. The gold and glittering chandeliers reinforce the previous lexia’s silver motif, creating a complete picture of a dazzling, wealthy environment.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[11] sparkling with candles.
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ sparkling, candles | Motifs: light, brilliance
SYM ✓ Illumination suggests revelation or exposure sparkling, candles
Oppositions: light vs dark
REF ✓ Evokes opulent salon or ballroom setting candles
Domains: aristocratic interiors, 19th century lighting
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Luxurious illumination; Atmosphere of brilliance; Symbolic enlightenment
Sensory fields: visual=sparkling, candles
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of an opulent interior space, emphasizing its luminous quality. The sparkling candles contribute to an atmosphere of wealth and refinement, while also potentially symbolizing enlightenment or exposure within the narrative.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[12] There, milling about,
HER —
ACT ✓ Continuous action of movement milling about
SEM ✓ milling about | Motifs: crowd, motion
SYM ✓ Milling suggests disorganized movement contrasting with structured space milling about
Oppositions: order vs chaos
REF ✓ Implies a crowded social event; There, milling about
Domains: social gatherings
Enumerated meanings (≤4): 1. Presence of a crowd; 2. Continuous movement; 3. Social gathering atmosphere; 4. Contrast between structure and disorder
Sensory fields: visual=moving figures
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of a lively scene, building on the previous mention of ‘sparkling with candles’. It introduces human presence and movement, transitioning from the static setting to dynamic activity. The use of ‘There’ connects this lexia spatially to the previously described location.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=1
[13] whirling around,
HER —
ACT ✓ Continuous motion of characters whirling around
SEM ✓ whirling | Motifs: movement, disorientation
SYM ✓ Circular motion implies lack of direction whirling around
Oppositions: order vs chaos
REF ✓ Suggests a lively social event whirling around
Domains: social gatherings, dance
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Continuous motion; Social activity; Disorientation or lack of direction; Energy and liveliness
Sensory fields: visual=whirling
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of movement from the previous one, intensifying it from ‘milling about’ to ‘whirling around’. It suggests a scene of increasing energy and perhaps confusion, setting up expectations for further development in the next lexia.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=3, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=1
[14] flitting here and
HER —
ACT ✓ Continuous movement of characters flitting here and
SEM ✓ flitting, here and | Motifs: movement, space
SYM —
REF ✓ Implies a bustling social event flitting here and
Domains: social gatherings, Parisian high society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): 1. Continuous movement in a social space; 2. Dynamism of the scene; 3. Implied presence of multiple characters
Sensory fields: visual=movement
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of a lively social scene, emphasizing the constant movement of characters within a space. It sets up the introduction of specific characters or groups in the following lexia, building anticipation for who these ‘flitting’ figures might be.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=2, SYM=0, REF=1
[15] there, were the most beautiful women of Paris, the richest, the noblest,
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ most beautiful, richest, noblest | Motifs: beauty, wealth, nobility
SYM —
REF ✓ Evokes the elite circles of Paris | Paris, most beautiful, richest, noblest
Domains: Parisian high society, social hierarchy
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Concentration of elite women; Hierarchy of social values; Idealization of Parisian society
Sensory fields: visual=beautiful women
Commentary: This lexia presents a catalogue of superlatives, emphasizing the exceptional nature of the women present. It sets up a scene of social exclusivity and perfection, potentially contrasting with other elements or characters to be introduced.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=0, REF=2
[16] dazzling, stately,
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ dazzling, stately | Motifs: beauty, nobility, wealth
SYM —
REF ✓ Evokes the grandeur of elite social gatherings dazzling, stately
Domains: Parisian high society, aristocracy
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Visual splendor of the women; Regal bearing of the attendees; Implied social status and power
Sensory fields: visual=dazzling
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of the women at the gathering, emphasizing their beauty and social standing. It builds on the previous lexia’s mention of ‘the most beautiful women of Paris, the richest, the noblest,’ and leads into the next lexia’s detailed description of their adornments.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=0, REF=2
[17] resplendent with diamonds, flowers in their hair, on their bosoms, on their heads,
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ diamonds, flowers, hair, bosoms, heads | Motifs: luxury, adornment, femininity
SYM ✓ Flowers (natural) contrasted with diamonds (artificial) diamonds, flowers
Oppositions: natural vs artificial
REF ✓ Evokes aristocratic or upper-class social gatherings; diamonds, flowers in their hair
Domains: high society, fashion, jewelry
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Opulence of the setting; Elaborate feminine adornment; Fusion of nature and artifice in fashion; Social status signifiers
Sensory fields: visual=resplendent, diamonds, flowers
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of a lavish scene, focusing on the ornate appearance of women present. It builds on the previous lexia’s ‘dazzling, stately’ atmosphere, detailing the specific elements that create this effect. The emphasis on multiple body parts adorned suggests a comprehensive view of the women’s appearances.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[18] strewn over dresses or
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ strewn, dresses | Motifs: abundance, decoration, fashion
SYM —
REF ✓ Evokes the opulence of formal attire in high society dresses
Domains: fashion, high society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Profusion of decorative elements; Emphasis on feminine attire; Suggestion of casual luxury
Sensory fields: visual=dresses
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of lavish adornments, focusing on how they are distributed across women’s clothing. It contributes to the overall image of extravagance and visual richness in the scene.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=0, REF=1
[19] in garlands at their feet.
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ garlands, feet | Motifs: flowers, luxury, abundance
SYM ✓ Garlands at feet suggest a contrast between elevated beauty and earthly foundation at their feet
Oppositions: high vs low
REF ✓ Evokes practices of adorning spaces and people with flowers garlands
Domains: floral decoration, fashion
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Floral abundance; Decorative luxury; Bodily adornment; Vertical contrast
Sensory fields: visual=garlands, feet
Commentary: This lexia completes a description of a lavishly decorated scene, likely a fashionable gathering. The garlands at feet create a sensory image of abundance and luxury, suggesting a space where beauty is cultivated even to the ground level.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=1
[20] Light, rustling movements, voluptuous steps, made the laces, the silk brocades, the gauzes,
HER —
ACT ✓ Subtle movements and steps of characters; Light, rustling movements, voluptuous steps
SEM ✓ voluptuous, laces, silk brocades, gauzes | Motifs: sensuality, luxury, delicacy
SYM ✓ Contrasts ethereal motion with rich fabrics; Light, rustling movements, silk brocades
Oppositions: movement vs stillness, lightness vs heaviness
REF ✓ Evokes high-class attire and social gatherings laces, silk brocades, gauzes
Domains: fashion, aristocratic society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Sensual atmosphere; Luxurious fashion; Graceful movement; Ethereal qualities
Sensory fields: visual=Light, laces, silk brocades, gauzes; auditory=rustling; tactile=silk
Commentary: This lexia builds on the previous mention of ‘garlands at their feet’ to create a vivid, sensory-rich scene of movement and luxury. It sets up an atmosphere of refined sensuality, preparing the reader for further descriptions of the characters and their environment.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[21] float around their delicate forms.
HER —
ACT ✓ Subtle movement of fabrics around bodies float around
SEM ✓ delicate forms, float | Motifs: delicacy, ethereality
SYM ✓ Contrast between floating fabrics and solid bodies float, forms
Oppositions: ethereal vs corporeal
REF ✓ Implies luxurious clothing at a formal event delicate forms
Domains: fashion, social gatherings
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Sensual movement of clothing; Ethereal quality of the scene; Delicacy of the attendees’ bodies; Implied luxury and formality
Sensory fields: visual=floating fabrics; tactile=delicate forms
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of movement and fabric from the previous one, emphasizing the ethereal and sensual atmosphere. It sets up a contrast with the next lexia, which shifts focus to more intense visual interactions.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=1
[22] Here and there, some overly animated glances darted forth,
HER ✓ Suggests hidden tensions or desires overly animated glances darted forth
ACT ✓ Describes movement of glances glances darted forth
SEM ✓ overly animated, darted forth | Motifs: animation, intensity
SYM ✓ Contrast between social decorum and passionate looks overly animated
Oppositions: restraint vs. expression
REF ✓ Alludes to social norms of gaze in high society glances darted forth
Domains: social etiquette, nonverbal communication
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Subtle social transgressions; Unspoken desires; Dynamic energy within stillness; Spatial dispersion of tension
Sensory fields: visual=animated glances, darting looks
Commentary: This lexia introduces a dynamic element to the previously described static scene. It suggests an undercurrent of passion or intrigue beneath the surface of social propriety, hinting at potential narrative developments or character revelations.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=2, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[23] eclipsing the lights, the fire of the diamonds, and
HER —
ACT ✓ The action of eclipsing suggests a dynamic visual effect eclipsing
SEM ✓ lights, fire, diamonds | Motifs: light, fire, diamonds
SYM ✓ The eclipsing suggests a contrast between different sources of light
eclipsing the lights, fire of the diamonds
Oppositions: light vs dark, natural vs artificial
REF ✓ Diamonds evoke wealth and social status diamonds
Domains: luxury, high society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Visual intensity of the scene; Contrast between different sources of light; Presence of wealth and luxury; Dynamic nature of the social gathering
Sensory fields: visual=lights, fire, diamonds
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of a lively social scene, emphasizing visual elements and suggesting a competitive atmosphere. The eclipsing of lights by the fire of diamonds implies a hierarchy of brilliance, possibly mirroring social dynamics.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[24] stimulated anew some too-ardent hearts.
HER ✓ Hints at potential romantic/sexual developments too-ardent hearts
ACT ✓ Implies action of stimulation stimulated anew
SEM ✓ stimulated, too-ardent hearts | Motifs: passion, excitement
SYM ✓ Implies tension between social decorum and desire too-ardent
Oppositions: restraint vs passion
REF ✓ Alludes to romantic/sexual dynamics in social settings
stimulated anew, too-ardent hearts
Domains: romantic/sexual attraction, social gatherings
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Heightened romantic/sexual tension; Rekindling of passion; Social dynamics of desire; Potential for romantic developments
Sensory fields: tactile=stimulated
Commentary: This lexia suggests a shift in the emotional atmosphere, likely in a social gathering. It follows descriptions of visual splendor (lights, diamonds) and implies that this spectacle has aroused passionate feelings among some attendees, setting the stage for potential romantic or dramatic developments.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=2
[25] One might also catch movements of the head meaningful to lovers, and negative
HER —
ACT ✓ Subtle actions of communication movements of the head, negative gestures
SEM ✓ meaningful to lovers, negative gestures for husbands | Motifs: lovers, husbands, secrecy
SYM ✓ Contrast between secret communication and open rejection
meaningful to lovers, negative gestures for husbands
Oppositions: lovers vs husbands
REF ✓ Alludes to complex social interactions in high society
movements of the head, gestures
Domains: social etiquette, non-verbal communication
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Secret communication between lovers; Rejection or dismissal of husbands; Social complexity in romantic relationships; Non-verbal cues as a means of interaction
Sensory fields: visual=movements of the head, gestures
Commentary: This lexia continues the theme of social intrigue and romantic tension introduced in the previous segment. It suggests a complex web of relationships and communications occurring within the social setting, where subtle movements carry significant meaning for different parties.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[26] gestures for husbands.
HER —
ACT ✓ Implies actions of husbands through gestures; gestures for husbands
SEM ✓ gestures for husbands | Motifs: marital communication
SYM ✓ Gestures represent non-verbal communication in contrast to spoken language gestures
Oppositions: verbal vs non-verbal
REF ✓ Refers to social customs and communication within marriage
husbands
Domains: marriage, social etiquette
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Non-verbal marital communication; Social codes in relationships; Subtle interactions in public spaces
Sensory fields: visual=gestures
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of a complex social scene, focusing on the subtle interactions between married couples. It suggests a layered communication system where gestures carry specific meanings for spouses, adding to the intricate web of social and romantic dynamics in the setting.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=2
[27] The sudden outbursts of the gamblers’ voices at each unexpected turn of the dice, the clink of gold, mingled with the music and the
HER —
ACT ✓ Gambling actions implied outbursts, turn of the dice, clink of gold
SEM ✓ gamblers’ voices, dice, gold, music, murmur of conversation | Motifs: gambling, noise, wealth
SYM ✓ Gambling represents unpredictability contrasted with controlled social interaction unexpected turn of the dice, music, murmur of conversation
Oppositions: chance vs control, noise vs music
REF ✓ Evokes atmosphere of a wealthy social gathering with gambling
gamblers, gold, music, conversation
Domains: gambling, high society
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Chaotic atmosphere of gambling; Wealth and luxury; Social gathering soundscape; Contrast between chance and social order
Sensory fields: visual=gold; auditory=outbursts, clink, music, murmur
Commentary: This lexia builds a rich auditory tapestry of a high-society gathering, blending the excitement of gambling with refined social interaction. It suggests a complex social environment where chance and wealth intersect with conversation and music.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=3
[28] murmur of conversation, and to
HER —
ACT ✓ Ongoing action of conversation
murmur of conversation
SEM ✓ murmur of conversation | Motifs: sound, communication
SYM —
REF ✓ Implies a social setting with ongoing conversations murmur of conversation
Domains: social gatherings, salon culture
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Continuous background noise; Social interaction; Atmospheric element of the scene
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia continues the auditory description of the scene, adding human voices to the previously mentioned sounds of gambling and music. It contributes to the building sensory overload that characterizes the environment.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=0, REF=1
[29] complete the giddiness of this mass of people intoxicated by everything
HER —
ACT ✓ The action of completing or intensifying a state complete the giddiness
SEM ✓ giddiness, mass of people intoxicated, everything | Motifs: intoxication, mass, giddiness
SYM ✓ The mass represents a collective experience contrasting with individual perception mass of people
Oppositions: individual vs collective
REF ✓ Evokes the atmosphere of a grand social event mass of people intoxicated by everything
Domains: social gatherings, sensory overload
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Collective sensory overload; Heightened social atmosphere; Loss of individual restraint; Culmination of stimuli
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia intensifies the atmosphere established in the previous fragment, moving from a ‘murmur of conversation’ to a state of complete intoxication. It suggests a crescendo in the social gathering, where individual perceptions blur into a collective experience of sensory and emotional overload.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=1, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[30] seductive the world can
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ seductive, world | Motifs: seduction, worldliness
SYM ✓ Implies a tension between allure and potential danger seductive
Oppositions: seduction vs resistance
REF ✓ Evokes the allure of high society seductive, world
Domains: social dynamics, sensuality
Enumerated meanings (≤4): The world’s capacity for seduction; The overwhelming nature of social experiences; The potential for intoxication by worldly pleasures
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia continues the theme of overwhelming sensory experiences hinted at in the previous fragment. It suggests that the world itself possesses a seductive quality, contributing to the overall atmosphere of intoxication and giddiness described in the surrounding text.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=2
[31] hold, a haze of perfume and general
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ haze of perfume, general inebriation | Motifs: perfume, inebriation, haze
SYM ✓ The ‘haze’ and ‘inebriation’ suggest a state of confusion or altered perception; haze, general inebriation
Oppositions: clarity vs. confusion
REF ✓ Evokes the atmosphere of a decadent social event; perfume, general inebriation
Domains: social gatherings, intoxication
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Sensory overload; Altered state of consciousness; Social intoxication; Atmospheric confusion
Sensory fields: visual=haze; olfactory=perfume
Commentary: This lexia contributes to the construction of a disorienting, intoxicating atmosphere. It suggests a transition from the ‘seductive world’ mentioned in the previous lexia to a state of altered perception, setting the stage for potentially unreliable observations or experiences to follow.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[32] inebriation played upon the fevered mind.
HER —
ACT ✓ The action of inebriation affecting the mind inebriation played upon the fevered mind
SEM ✓ inebriation, fevered mind | Motifs: intoxication, mental state
SYM ✓ Inebriation symbolizes a state of altered perception inebriation, fevered mind
Oppositions: sobriety vs intoxication, clarity vs confusion
REF ✓ References the effects of alcohol on mental processes inebriation, fevered mind
Domains: physiology, psychology
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Altered state of consciousness; Influence of intoxication on perception; Mental instability or excitement
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia bridges the previous mention of a ‘haze of perfume’ with the upcoming contrasts between death and life, nature and human revelry. It suggests a transitional state of mind that allows for the perception of these stark oppositions.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=2, SEM=3, SYM=2, REF=2
[33] Thus, on my right, the dark and silent image of death; on my left, the seemly bacchanalias of life: here, cold nature, dull, in mourning; there, human beings enjoying themselves.
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ dark and silent image of death, seemly bacchanalias of life, cold nature, dull, in mourning, human beings enjoying themselves | Motifs: death, life, nature, human enjoyment
SYM ✓ The lexia is structured around stark contrasts on my right, the dark and silent image of death; on my left, the seemly bacchanalias of life, here, cold nature, dull, in mourning; there, human beings enjoying themselves
Oppositions: death vs life, right vs left, silence vs bacchanalia, cold vs enjoyment
REF ✓ Alludes to the diverse experiences of Parisian life; bacchanalias, Paris the world’s most amusing and most philosophical city
Domains: Parisian society, moral philosophy
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Juxtaposition of life and death; Contrast between nature and human society; Duality of Parisian experience; Narrator’s philosophical contemplation
Sensory fields: visual=dark; auditory=silent; tactile=cold
Commentary: This lexia presents a vivid tableau of contrasts, reflecting the narrator’s divided perception of their surroundings. It sets up a philosophical reflection on the duality of Parisian life, bridging the previous lexia’s ‘fevered mind’ with the upcoming ‘moral macédoine’.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=3, REF=1
[34] On the borderline between these two so different scenes, which, a thousand times repeated in various guises, make Paris the world’s most amusing and most philosophical city, I was making for myself a moral macédoine, half pleasant, half funereal.
HER —
ACT ✓ The narrator is creating a mental mixture of impressions; I was making for myself a moral macédoine
SEM ✓ borderline, two so different scenes, most amusing and most philosophical city, half pleasant, half funereal | Motifs: borderline, contrast, philosophy, amusement
SYM ✓ The lexia emphasizes contrasts in Paris two so different scenes, half pleasant, half funereal
Oppositions: pleasant vs funereal, amusing vs philosophical
REF ✓ References to Paris and use of ‘macédoine’ (a culinary term) Paris the world’s most amusing and most philosophical city, moral macédoine
Domains: Parisian culture, culinary metaphor
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Paris as a city of contrasts; Narrator’s internal reflection; Blending of opposing experiences; Cultural commentary on Parisian life
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia serves as a pivot point between the contrasting scenes described in the previous lexia. It introduces the narrator’s personal reflection on these juxtaposed experiences, setting up a metaphorical space for further exploration of Parisian life and culture.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=1, SEM=3, SYM=3, REF=2
[35] With my left foot I beat time, and I
HER ✓ The unfinished sentence creates suspense about what the narrator is experiencing; and I
ACT ✓ The narrator describes a physical action; With my left foot I beat time
SEM ✓ left foot, beat time | Motifs: rhythm, body
SYM ✓ The specification of ‘left foot’ implies a contrast with the right, possibly symbolizing the duality of the narrator’s experience; left foot
Oppositions: left vs right
REF ✓ The action of beating time evokes musical or dance contexts.
beat time
Domains: music, dance
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Narrator’s physical engagement with rhythm; Implication of musical or dance-like setting; Bodily division mirroring mental state; Incomplete action suggesting continuation
Sensory fields: auditory=beat time; tactile=left foot
Commentary: This lexia continues the narrator’s self-reflection from the previous ‘moral macédoine’ observation. The physical act of beating time with the left foot suggests a rhythmic engagement with the surrounding scenes, possibly mirroring the mental oscillation between ‘pleasant’ and ‘funereal’ thoughts mentioned earlier.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=3, SEM=2, SYM=1, REF=1
[36] felt as though the other
HER ✓ Enigma of who ‘the other’ is and why they might be in the grave the other
ACT —
SEM ✓ felt, the other | Motifs: feeling, otherness
SYM ✓ Contrast between the narrator’s living state and ‘the other’ in the grave
felt, the other, grave
Oppositions: life vs death
REF ✓ Evokes concepts of death and burial grave
Domains: mortality
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Sense of disconnection from another person; Perception of death’s proximity; Emotional distance between individuals; Awareness of mortality
Sensory fields: tactile=felt
Commentary: This lexia continues the narrator’s sensory experience, shifting from physical movement to an emotional perception. It introduces a stark contrast between the narrator’s living state and a sense of death or absence associated with ‘the other’, creating tension and mystery.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=3, REF=1
[37] were in the grave.
HER ✓ Enigma of who or what is in the grave; were in the grave
ACT —
SEM ✓ grave | Motifs: death, burial
SYM ✓ Contrast between living narrator and death imagery grave
Oppositions: life vs death
REF ✓ Evokes cultural knowledge of burial grave
Domains: funerary practices
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Suggestion of death or mortality; Sense of confinement or entrapment; Metaphorical description of extreme coldness
Sensory fields: —
Commentary: This lexia creates a stark image of death, continuing the sensation from the previous lexia. It sets up a contrast with the following lexia, which returns to physical sensations of the living narrator.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[38] My leg was in fact chilled by one of those insidious drafts which
HER ✓ Introduces an enigma about the nature and source of the draft insidious drafts
ACT ✓ Implies the action of feeling a chill; My leg was in fact chilled
SEM ✓ chilled, insidious drafts| Motifs: coldness, insidiousness
SYM ✓ The draft symbolizes an intrusion of discomfort into a presumably comfortable setting chilled, insidious drafts
Oppositions: warmth vs cold, comfort vs discomfort
REF ✓ Refers to the physical sensation of cold and architectural features that allow drafts leg was in fact chilled, drafts
Domains: physiology, architecture
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Unexpected physical discomfort; Intrusion of external elements; Subtle threat to bodily comfort; Partial nature of the sensation
Sensory fields: tactile=chilled, drafts
Commentary: This lexia introduces a physical sensation that contrasts with the presumably comfortable setting implied by the previous context. It sets up a tension between the narrator’s bodily experience and their environment, hinting at a broader theme of hidden or unexpected influences.
Code strengths: HER=2, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
[39] freeze half our bodies while the other half
HER —
ACT ✓ The action of freezing is implied, though not directly performed; freeze
SEM ✓ freeze half our bodies | Motifs: bodily discomfort, temperature contrast
SYM ✓ The body is divided into contrasting temperature zones; freeze half, other half
Oppositions: cold vs heat, half vs whole
REF —
Domains: —
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Physical discomfort at a social event; Duality of sensory experience; Contrast between expected pleasure and actual discomfort
Sensory fields: tactile=freeze
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of physical discomfort introduced in the previous fragment. It sets up a contrast between the expected enjoyment of a ball and the actual bodily experience, hinting at a broader theme of social appearances versus private realities.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=1, SEM=2, SYM=3, REF=0
[40] feels the humid heat of rooms, an occurrence rather frequent at balls.
HER —
ACT —
SEM ✓ humid heat, rather frequent | Motifs: heat, humidity, frequency
SYM ✓ Contrasts the interior heat with implied exterior cold rooms, humid heat
Oppositions: inside vs outside
REF ✓ Refers to the common experience at balls
Domains: social gatherings, ballroom etiquette
Enumerated meanings (≤4): Discomfort of crowded social spaces; Physical sensations at formal events; Contrast between interior and exterior environments; Regularity of unpleasant experiences at balls
Sensory fields: tactile=humid heat
Commentary: This lexia continues the description of physical sensations experienced at the ball, contrasting with the previous mention of freezing. It emphasizes the unpleasant aspects of such social gatherings, hinting at the complex interplay between social obligations and bodily discomfort.
Code strengths: HER=0, ACT=0, SEM=2, SYM=2, REF=1
Notes on Structuralism & AI 