Explanation
Cultural or aesthetic loading of individual letters with meaning beyond their ordinary phonographic function. Shows how even the smallest written signs can carry cultural memories.
Example
The A becomes a sign of beginning and the emblem of the atlas.
Counterexample
A represents a sound in the word atlas.
Distinction
Unlike sound symbolism, letter symbolism works chiefly through visual form or cultural convention.
Effect on thought and perception
Shows how even the smallest written signs can carry cultural memories.
Resonance
A single letter grows from a component into a site of memory.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Letter symbolism“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-METZ1-0014. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-METZ1-0014The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.