The LaV Framework

This chapter develops our conceptual framework of Language-as-Victory (LaV) from its initial conception in 2015 to its current, more complex iteration. It first elaborates on the two essential elements of our name, detailing what we mean by "language" and "victory." In the case of language, the chapter elaborates on how the framework has evolved from initially exploring linguistic strategies to gradually incorporating semiotic and aesthetic strategies, and finally adding identity as an additional dimension of the LaV framework—dimensions that we will explore in detail in Chapters 4–7. In the event of victory, this chapter outlines how the LaV framework has evolved from its initial concept of "winning the game" to encompass the ideas of "long-term commitment" and "overall appreciation of the game" (Phase 2). The chapter also explores the key concepts that shape #TeamLaV's understanding of language and victory, culminating in a discussion of the current taxonomy of LaV, which includes learning, playing, identity, and networking. This taxonomy will also inform the analysis introduced in Acts II and III and the expansion of the framework illustrated in Act IV.