In:Bonding through Context: Language and interactional alignment in Japanese situated discourse
Edited by Risako Ide and Kaori Hata
[Pragmatics & Beyond New Series 314] 2020
► pp. 265–281
Chapter 12Intertextuality in Japanese
advertising
The semiotics of shared narrative
Published online: 3 December 2020
https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.314.12wet
https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.314.12wet
Abstract
Intertextuality,
particularly word play, is a common feature of
Japanese advertising. This article argues that
intertextuality is a mechanism for accomplishing
the ultimate goal of marketers – to bond with
consumers. Reference to texts that consumers know
creates an insider narrative space; consumers
share this space by virtue of being “in on” the
reference. Intertextual references are accompanied
by additional text and visual signs (colors,
natural phenomena associated with the seasons)
that amplify and diffuse the message. Ultimately,
the marketer’s world merges with the consumer’s
through the medium of advertising.
Keywords: Japanese advertising, semiotics, intertextuality, word play
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.Intertextuality in advertising
- 3.Conclusion
Acknowledgements Note References
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