Abstract

In this essay, starting from the concept of extended writing introduced by Pietro Montani, we will investigate the semiotic ways in which the syncretic language of the song-form (music, words and performance) is re-configured as an element of audiovisual material engagement from this new writing practice. In particular, we will address the case of a specific short-form, Instagram Stories, specifically exploring the self-portraitial function of the language of the song. The analysis will show how the song segments are re-adapted, cut out and reconfigured around the images especially by the users of the Zeta and Alpha generation, thus assuming the function of identity devices and incorporating new meanings obtained from the integration with other elements and from the use of elementary editing practices. The song-form, then, appears in the current mediascape as a simple, ubiquitous and easily re-writable writing material, particularly suitable for stimulating both self-media and social identity instances in its audiovisual re-configuration.