Discussion → Hypertext Purpose
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Nice to see a bit more interest in the new story I put in here as an example. "Maude Nichols" is really the popular concept of hypertext, where a clear list of choices is given so a reasonable decision can be made. Now that doesn't necessarily mean that the reader knows where the story is going from there, but he does know enough to give him a hint, and more than the traditional book that doesn't give him any clue as to what's on the next page.
I'm wondering if this is a more "user-friendly" way of introducing people into the hypertext environment.
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Maybe I don't necessarily mean "purpose" here, or am referring to the "purpose" of a link itself.
Coming off the Matchbook discussion on Plotless Fiction, I think I'm wondering here about connections. I've used hypertext not only in the "what happens next?" mode, but in several other ways; to develop background, to enhance possibilities, moods, to introduce a different point of view, etc. Advancing plot, then, is just one purpose.
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that's a helpful comment, susan, thanks. in the little (very little) that i've done so far, i find the hypermode lends itself easily to transcend plot-ness.
Group Description
While many are introduced to hypertext fiction in contemporary lit or new media college courses, the general reading (and writing!) public seems to still be unaware or reluctant to explore this form of narrative.
In this age of electronic reading, hypertext--which is simply clicking on links to discover different paths within a story--is particularly well-suited to the medium.
If you have written in the hypertext format, are curious about it, or have some thoughts or questions about its emergence into mainstream reading, this is the place to be.
This is a public group.
Anyone can see it and join.