The Cryptic Communication Function of Anagrams in Specific Literary Contexts

Abstract

The concept of anagrams as a form of cryptic communication has not gained much currency of usage in our contemporary world, particularly in the global South. Apart from its usage as a pastime in leisure and entertainment activities in games and puzzles, its usage has not transcended these pedantic forms and formats into more professional communicative utilities. This study is interested in investigating the communicative forms and formats inherent in the use of anagrams, especially in cryptic communication. It also hopes to emphasise the historical use of such cryptic systems as anagrams, secret codes, and underground symbolic and literary forms of communication, deliberate misinformation, disinformation and propaganda in our contemporary world. The study is nestled within the “Diffusion of Innovations theory” of mass media, which traces how people adopt a new idea or practice based on the available information. The study avers that much utility is inherent in the adoption of a cryptic communication system that can be derived from anagrams and other forms and systems of discreet, secret or crypto-communication, both for deific, ritualistic, medical, psycho-therapeutic, civilian and militaristic uses.