The final chapter in Scott Rettberg’s Electronic Literature covers “divergent streams” which Rettberg states “deserve fuller treatment that the space of this volume will allow” (183). In this chapter Rettberg includes: locative narrative, digital literary installations, virtual and augmented reality narrative, and interactive and combinatory cinema. These pieces of literature all present some kind of physical art extension. To me, these forms of literature are exceptionally unique, as compared to the other kinds we’ve already looked at, because they are fleeting. 50 years from now there may not be any record of their existence.
I chose to look into a locative narrative called Yellow Arrow Project, by Christopher Allen, Brian House, and Jesse Shapins. I chose this piece because it sounded familiar to our interactive assignment last week with our “I feel” markers. This piece was also really cool to me because anyone could participate, anywhere. Participants could act as a creator by ordering their own arrow online and texting the project manager through the number linked to the yellow arrow sticker. This allows them to add their own observation or piece to the link on the sticker. These stickers could be placed anywhere. Other individuals could interact with this art piece by calling the number on the sticker to retrieve whatever was linked to it.This project seems like something the world could need right now, good social distancing but easy communication.
This is a link to a piece written about the Yellow Arrow Project:
Docubase-YellowArrow Sabrina Brown
I like how you point out that these forms are "fleeting." How could they be preserved in the future? Obviously there is the online directory, but what about the physical parts of the works? Or will the technology become obsolete and the work will be gone forever? Divergent streams seem even more special when you realize they might not be able to be saved. It's both interesting and a little sad.
ReplyDeleteYes, fleeting. Installations and virtual spaces in particular--the true meaning and power is being embodied within the space, an experiential narrative that really can't be recreated or communicated via video or text after the fact. Fleeting.And, you're right too, a little sad.
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