ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines semiotics to show how the playground epitomizes visions of play, childhood and societal longings. Theoretically the conversation is an excellent example of the process of semiosis, the active negotiating of the meaning of a word; and specifically about the playground and the many more examples of discussing it – word, visual construction, assessment – between critique and praise, between freedom and containment, between longing for Arcadia and hoping for Utopia. Readings praising or criticizing the playground and evaluating childhood itself can be interpreted again as signs. Despite all attempts to leave the playground and its often criticized fixed equipment behind, it seems to have a persistent place in common-sense thinking, which includes the mourning for lost freedom and which at the same time is also fond of the idea of a specially designed and equipped place, as was seen both in the parents' responses in the opening scenario and in the Wikipedia article.
