Creativity and systemic functional linguistics: Analysing pattern-forming creativity using Creativity-In-Register Cube Framework (CIRCF)

Abstract

In recent years, the study of creativity has slowly made its way from applied linguistics to systemic functional linguistics (SFL). As theories and analytical frameworks emerge, definitions and descriptions of creativity has expanded and is bridging the gap in our understanding. In applied linguistics, creativity is defined as the interplay between forming and reforming of patterns (Carter, 2004) in text of any medium. In SFL terms, when instantiated at the context of situation, creativity “has undergone changes brought about by [] phylogenesis, ontogenesis and logogenesis to reach a logogenetic stage where meanings can be created, reinforced or altered by a language user's choices to reach a target audience” (Law, 2021). This presentation is a sequel to the talk by Law and Matthiessen (2019) at the 29th European Systemic Functional Linguistics Conference (ESFLC 2019), titled “A comparison of professional medical consultations and dramatized ones”. It aims to provide a walk-through of the SFL-based Creativity-in-Register Cube Framework (CIRCF) in the analysis of pattern-forming creativity (in the form of verbal repetition as semiotic resource). Dialogues from American medical TV dramedy House M.D. were quantitatively analysed. This multi-dimensional semiotic analysis involves different fields of activity/socio-semiotic processes and variables under field, tenor and mode. Results will be presented numerically and graphically via several creative two/three/four-dimensional visualisations. Possible future research topics are included in the conclusion section. Carter, R. (2004). Language and Creativity: The Art of Common Talk. Routledge. Law, L. (2021). Creativity and register: Applying the Creativity-In-Register Cube Framework (CIRCF) to the analysis of pattern-forming creativity. Linguistics and Human Sciences, 15 (1), 97-128. https://doi.org/10.1558/lhs.40852 Law, L. & Matthiessen, C. MIM. (2019, July 3-5). A comparison of professional medical consultations and dramatized ones [Paper presentation]. European Systemic Functional Linguistics Conference (ESFLC) 2019: SFL on Multiliteracies, Professional Discourse and Education, Leiria. https://sites.ipleiria.pt/esflc2019/