The CODE-X series catalogs a vast codex of source codes (aka “signs”) extracted from past audits.

The object of study in semiotics is not the signs but rather a general theory of signification; the goal of each “audit” is to build a model demonstrating how meaning is produced and received within a category or cultural territory. Signs on their own, therefore, only become truly revelatory and useful once we’ve sorted them into thematic complexes, and the complexes into codes, and the codes into a meaning map. We call this process “thick description”; the Code-X series is thin description.

“STAY ON TRACK” NORM: Losing track of what day of the week it is isn’t just for school children, any longer. During the Coronavirus epidemic — with folks working odd hours, from home, or not working at all — it’s become a whole thing.

“STAY ON TRACK” FORMS: Calendars, with days Xed off; or calendars torn up. Laments about losing track of time, e.g., “Days without name: On time in the time of coronavirus.” “Not sure if tomorrow means today or tomorrow.” Rueful jokes about losing track of time, e.g., “Think it’s a Monday. 90% certain. Well, 85.”

From an ongoing audit of what we’re calling the Covid Relief space.