What is a map?

I've just prepared my post for the maps reveal later today and I had a terrible thought that perhaps I had not addressed the theme. Gulp.  That got me thinking, what is a map?   According to Wikipedia:

A map is a visual representation of an area—a symbolic depiction highlighting relationships between elements of that space such as objects, regions, and themes.
Many maps are static two-dimensional, geometrically accurate (or approximately accurate) representations of three-dimensional space, while others are dynamic or interactive, even three-dimensional. Although most commonly used to depict geography, maps may represent any space, real or imagined, without regard to context or scale

Maps are a form of symbolization, governed by a set of conventions, that aim to communicate a sense of place. To fully understand a map it helps to know how to decode its message and place it within its proper spatial, chronological, and cultural contexts.    If cartography is a form of communication, the measure of a good map  is how well it conveys information to its readers to enlighten, convince, or persuade. It sounds a lot like art really and that is a comforting thought.  You are here.