triptych

Triptych is a Prolog implementation of a system poem derived from bergholt.net/sun.

The generator creates 72 distinct variants of the poem, each based on a combination of three nouns, three verbs, four adverbs, and two syntactic structures.

This results in one poem for every eclipse in the Saros 126 cycle, spanning from 1179 to 2459.

About the Project

Sun: A Triptych for the Solar Eclipse conceptualizes language as a combinatory machine, inspired by the glossematics framework of Louis Hjelmslev.

Through the use of a ten-word grid that includes nouns, verbs, adverbs, and the deictic term now, it generates a multitude of variations, thereby mapping meaning through finite elements subjected to fixed constraints.

Why Prolog?

Instead of outlining execution steps, Prolog defines constraints within the linguistic system, thereby facilitating the emergence of meaning through the formal relationships of components.

Its innate backtracking capabilities allow for the effective exploration of the ten-word grid, ensuring that every possible variant can be generated while maintaining precise syntactic control and anchoring of context.

Example Usage

To run the project, SWI-Prolog is required. Execute the following command:

swipl sun.pl

The output will include variants such as:

1. apertures align rhythmically
2. apertures align vertically
3. apertures align recursively
4. apertures align now
...
72. now, apparitions emerge

The Significance of 72

• Corresponds to 72 eclipses in Saros 126 (1179–2459)
• Reflects the 72 variants of the poem
• Comprises 72 lines of code
• Yields 72 outputs upon execution

The number 72 is inherently meaningful, embodying the cycle itself.

Further Exploration

For additional insights into heteroglossia, chronotopes, and glossematics, visit bergholt.net/glossary.