This article takes a look at the linguistic landscapes of the Stockholm archipelago with the aim to discuss if, and how, a specific sense of place is produced or reflected in the signs, building on Lefebvre’s concept of social spaces. Signs collected from two islands, Nämdö and Svartsö, are used in qualitative analysis. Firstly, the construction of such a (rural) linguistic landscape is discussed, focusing on the languages used as well as the emplacement and general functions of signs. Secondly, a closer look at some examples from the linguistic landscape provides insight into signs that are speaking to locals and visitors. The analysis shows that the linguistic landscape is almost exclusively made up of signs in Swedish. Functionally, a variety of different signs can be found, partly centred by local businesses, and on bulletin boards, but many signs with general information and instructions can also be found throughout the landscape. Examples of signs addressing both permanent residents and visitors can be identified, but the general sense of place the linguistic landscapes reflect is that of more organic places, not overly produced or touristic ones.
Signs in the linguistic landscape (LL) can be used to both inform the public and to regulate their actions – functions that are highly relevant when communicating about risk. This chapter discusses the characteristics of the risk discourse carried by the linguistic landscape, more specifically the safety information signage found onboard metro carriages in Stockholm and Helsinki. The analysis deals with both how such information is presented on the multimodal signs and what kinds of risks and responsibilities are depicted as part of this information. The results show that emplacement and the visual design, more specifically the application of colours, are noteworthy characteristics of risk discourse present in the LL. Few actual risks are spelled out in the signage and even if the readers can be given responsibility to act in the face of risks, this information can be worded in different ways. Considering interpersonal speech functions, both direct commands and more ambivalent, passive statements can be found, with some differences in practices between the two cities. Overall, the situated nature of the safety information signage points to the role of place semiotics in meaning making within risk discourse, thus highlighting the value of considering the LL in order to gain a better understanding of risk communication.
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