Research on the semantics of programming language has tended towards formalisation. Following the successful deployment and myriad uses of formal syntax, many of those working on semantics assumed similar successes would be realised with formal semantics. The reality was different, and the resultant language specifications were large, complicated, technical artefacts.  My previous historical research has studied those from a technical perspective. 

In this talk, I will explore the conceptual surroundings of the semantics, examining the use of metaphors, analogies, and illustrative language used to accompany or explain the formal documents. It is early stage research and will focus primarily on picking examples from the history of semantics for deeper analysis in the future. I will also present some philosophical frameworks I am considering for use in this analysis and begin to discuss how they might help us understand the topic. This research will ultimately lead to a conference presentation and journal article next year,  as well as forming a pilot study for a research grant proposal.

Consequently, I particularly welcome discussion and suggestions.