Enigmatical canon is a perplexing musical composition that poses a challenge to the listener or performer. The word is spelled phonetically as /ˌɛnɪɡˈmætɪkəl ˈkænən/ in IPA transcription. It comprises of two distinct terms, "enigmatical" meaning mysterious or puzzling and "canon" which refers to a musical form where an initial melody is followed by one or more voices. Together, the term suggests a complex musical riddle. Enigmatical canons were widely popular in the Baroque era, and the most famous example is the "Enigma Variations" by Edward Elgar.
Enigmatical canon refers to a peculiar form of a puzzle or riddle found in ancient Greek literature. This term originates from the Greek word "enigma," meaning a mystery or puzzle, and "kanon," referring to a rule or law. It specifically highlights the use of puzzling, enigmatic statements that are challenging to decipher or understand.
In the context of literature, an enigmatical canon often involves a combination of metaphors, cryptic phrases, and symbolic language, posing a test to the reader's comprehension skills. It serves as a literary device that prompts intellectual curiosity and engages the reader's analytical thinking. The enigmatic nature of the canons encourages readers to dig deeper beyond the surface meaning, unraveling hidden messages or deeper truths within the text.
Historically, enigmatical canons were popularized by ancient Greek poets and philosophers, such as Homer and Heraclitus, who employed enigmatic language in their works, sparking philosophical debates and interpretations. The objective is not merely to entertain or challenge, but also to provoke critical thinking and contemplation.
Overall, an enigmatical canon can be understood as a literary construction consisting of puzzling, metaphorical, and symbolic statements that are intentionally crafted with layers of hidden meaning. This literary technique invites readers to engage in a quest for unraveling the underlying message, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the text.
The word "enigmatical" is derived from the Latin word "aenigmaticus", which traces back to the Greek word "ainigmatikos", meaning "enigmatic" or "puzzling". The term "canon" has its roots in the Greek word "kanōn", which initially meant a "measuring rod" or "rule". Over time, it came to denote a set of principles, standards, or religious texts. When combined, "enigmatical canon" suggests a mysterious or puzzling rule or set of principles.