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INTERTEXTUALITY IN MUSIC VIDEOS

  • Writer: Leting Chen
    Leting Chen
  • Nov 3, 2022
  • 2 min read

Updated: Mar 23, 2023

Intertextuality is a concept that is build up from other texts to create a new layer of meaning. It can be created in various ways, such as through allusions to cultural events, historical periods, established genres, or direct and indirect references to other works. Intertextuality is a means to undestand how culture is interconnected and how works of art are influenced by and contribute to cultural trends and movements. Additionally, it shows the importance of context in interpreting works of art. Therefore, having knowdledge of the historical and cultural context of a particual text is crucial to fully appreciate its significance and make the viewer reflex.


Postmodern music videos often employ various techniques such as intertextuality, pastiche, homage, bricolage, self-reflexivity, parody, irony, and antirealism to create new and unique works. Pastiche involves combining different elements or styles to create different version of the original, then, homage is used to pay tribute to past iconic music videos or artists. Bricolage involves using found materials or footage to create something new never seen before. Self-reflexivity calls attention to the video's own process or nature by including behind-the-scenes footage or breaking the fourth wall realizing itself that it is not real. Parody uses humor or satire to mock or imitate specific styles or works, often to comment on music video tropes. Irony involves presenting situatoions in unexpected ways. Finally, antirealism rejects the idea of representing reality accurately and can involve creating surreal or abstract imagery or rejecting traditional narrative structures.


As mentioned earlier in my statement of intentions, I aim to create a visually striking music video that is primarily focused on aesthetics rather than narrative. In order to achieve this goal, I plan to incorporate intertextual references from other media texts. By doing so, I can add layers of complexity and depth to the video, making it more engaging and entertaining for the audience. The use of intertextual references can also create a sense of anticipation and intrigue for viewers, as they may recognize and appreciate the references.

Furthermore, intertextuality can be used as a tool to subvert or play with the expectations of the audience. I will consider careful plannign and research fot the intertextual references in my music video. The intertextual references should be meaningful and relevant to the overall aesthetic and concept of the video, rather than simply inserted for the sake of it. Additionally, the references should be recognizable and accessible to my target audience.


THE EXPLANATION OF INTERTEXTUAL ELEMENTS IN MY MUSIC VIDEO IS EXPLAINED IN THE 'MISE EN SCENE POST'


As this video shows, many music videos contains references from other media texts which could result nostalgic to the audience.


These two music videos that I analysed are similar to what I am looking for in mine's. They both contain lots of intertextuality and I am willing to also reference from other existent media texts in order for the audience to feel nostalgic.


 
 
 

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