Uptake Post 5

 Alright...let's talk about multimodality.

Like me, you probably have no recollection of this word or what it means, so allow me to explain

Multimodality is the incorporation of multiple modes into one final product. 

"ok well what the heck is a mode?" Yeah...I hear you.

A mode is just the term used for modes of communication in the context of media, and there are five of them. 

"jeez, first seven chat terms, now five modes? I don't think I can keep up with this" 

shut up inner conflict, no one likes you.

Anyways, the five modes of communication consist of alphanumeric, visual, aural, oral, and symbolic. It is honestly a pretty easy concept

did I know anything about it before this class? 

lol no

However, that is the beauty of learning and acquiring knowledge...I guess.

The biggest factor of confusion, for me, is just how the heck the brain can pick up on so many things just based off of single modes. It is absolutely insane. 

I mean I know this isn't a psychology class, but I want answers! 

Humans are so weird and gross and smart. Ugh.

Take this Fleet Foxes song for example. Based off of this song I can pick up that this is one of the most beautifully poetic songs on the face of the Earth.

Ok maybe I am a little biased.

Let me explain.

Montezuma is a beautiful song, even just looking at the album cover, I can see that this is a wonderful combination of mourning, the lure of generations passed, the beauty of nature, and ultimately, humanity

this song is so much deeper than that. The lyrics are vague, and they leave a lot to be interpreted, but this is what I adore about "Montezuma". It expresses the mourning of one's youth, wishing to go back and change the decisions you have made, yearning for someone to love and not just possessions to be coveted. It is a devastating display of the contribution that decisions play in the life that we create. It is a wonderful warning, as if to say "true riches lie within your loved ones, not in your material assets. So love." The overarching theme being that we all will run out of time. Love while you can, for being buried with a heart full of love is significantly more valuable than being buried with a crown of solid gold.

Overall, this song is a wonderful example of the power of multimodality. It's poetic "alphanumeric" expression is powerful on its own, but the composition of the instrumentals to form a magnificent aural experience leaves the listener in awe.