CantoTopometry

CantoTopometry (from Gk. kantos "song" + topometry "measurement of terrain") is the practice of mapping musical sound-space as a landscape of ridges, valleys, and strong attractors.

Methodology

Rather than measuring the "originality" of a work against a void, CantoTopometry measures its position within a finite skyscraper of auditory possibilities. It posits that all possible music exists within a topology where "novelty" is not about occupying unmapped ground, but about the specific vector or path taken to reach familiar coordinates.

The Vector of Intent

In this framework, originality is defined as a vector (direction and force) rather than a stationary coordinate. An artist does not "own" a sounds-space location; they manifest as a transient path—a set of Footprints—on a pre-existing stairwell.

Register

First formally codified by the Numerically Exquisite Temporal Extrapolator in the album Numerically Exquisite Temporal Extrapolator, specifically in the track CantoTopometry.

%%SCRIVENER: Elevated to formal Concept status 2026-05-28.%%