On metaphorical exemplification in music: a reply to Sousa
On metaphorical exemplification in music: a reply to Sousa

Summary/Abstract: I address a series of difficulties raised by Tiago Sousa against the use of Nelson Goodman'sconcept of metaphorical exemplification to explain expressiveness in music, especially purelyinstrumental music. My aim is not exactly to defend Goodman, but rather the soundness orplausibility of using metaphorical exemplification in explaining expressiveness. I approachSousa’s difficulties in two blocs: i) his first and third problems challenge the metaphoricalcharacter of certain descriptions of music, and the consistency of metaphorical (as opposed toliteral) exemplification; ii) his second problem is directed at the compatibility betweenexemplification (metaphorical or otherwise) and expressiveness. I focus especially on thissecond problem: if what a musical work expresses is uniquely bound to the experience of thatmusical work and no other, how can expressiveness be anything like the exemplification ofproperties by samples? My further aim, more than dispelling these difficulties beyond anydoubt, is to rekindle discussion of Goodman’s ideas on expressiveness. They are just toofashionably out of fashion, which is always a sign that some stirring is in order.

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