Definitions and Examples

Definitions

HYPERTEXT:

The term hypertext was coined in 1963 by Theodore Nelson. His definition is:

“Hypertext means forms of writing which branch or perform on request; they are best presented on computer display screens. Discrete or chunk style, hypertexts consist of separate pieces of texts connected by links.” (Wardip-Fruin, 2004)

HYPERTEXT FICTION:

Hypertext fiction is a genre of electronic literature, characterized by the use of hypertext links which provide a new context for non-linearity in literature and reader interaction. The reader typically chooses links to move from one node of text to the next, and in this fashion arranges a story from a deeper pool of potential stories.” (Bishop, J, 2009)

Examples

“Afternoon, a Story”  By Michael Joyce is considered to be the first recognized hypertext novel. Published in  1987, by Eastgate Systems. It was created on Storyspace software.

The most well cited hypertext fictions, published in 1995 by Shelly Jackson called, “Patchwork Girl” also published by Eastgate Systems via Storyspace. I suggest you watch this short demonstration on what it was like to be a reader of “Patchwork Girl

M.D. Coverly’s “Califa” (you guessed it, published by Eastgate Systems via Storyspace) is considered to be one of the more successful hypertext books. It uses the platform of many characters and the need to switch between them and their perspectives that breaks the linear model and works well with the flexibility of hypertexts.

References

Wardrip-Fruin, N. (2004) What Hypertext is. Proceedings of the fifteenthAMV conference on Hypertext and hypermedia, August 9-13, 20014. Santa Cruz, Ca, USA.

 

17 thoughts on “Definitions and Examples

  1. Hypertext fiction has truly transformed how stories are experienced, blending non-linear narratives with reader interaction. Works like Patchwork Girl and Califa showcase the innovative potential of this genre. It’s fascinating how these formats redefine storytelling flexibility. By the way, platforms like Terabox offer similar innovations for managing and accessing digital content efficiently.

  2. Hypertext fiction truly revolutionizes the way readers interact with stories, breaking the traditional linear narrative into something far more dynamic. Works like Patchwork Girl demonstrate how hypertext can transform storytelling into an interactive and immersive experience. It’s fascinating how platforms like Storyspace have shaped this genre. Speaking of innovative digital platforms, I’ve been exploring interactive gaming environments, and CarX has been a standout in creating immersive user experiences.

  3. Great insight into the evolution of hypertext fiction! The way hypertext allows for non-linear storytelling, like in Afternoon, a Story and Patchwork Girl, really shows the power of interactive narratives. It’s fascinating how hypertext fiction challenges traditional storytelling methods. For those interested in branching narratives, even outside the literary world, games like bitlife offer a great example of non-linear experiences where choices directly shape the outcome. Thanks for sharing these examples!

  4. Great overview of hypertext and hypertext fiction! It’s fascinating to see how the evolution of hypertext has shaped literature, especially with works like Michael Joyce’s Afternoon and Shelly Jackson’s Patchwork Girl. The non-linear approach opens up so many possibilities for readers. For those interested in exploring more interactive content, there are plenty of digital experiences, such as the 3 patti blue apk, that use similar concepts of branching narratives and user choices. Thanks for sharing this insightful post!

  5. Great explanation of hypertext and its evolution! The concept of non-linearity in literature through hypertext fiction is fascinating, especially how stories like Afternoon, a Story and Patchwork Girl challenge traditional narrative forms. It’s amazing how platforms like Storyspace have played such a pivotal role in shaping this genre. I think the flexibility of hypertext can be applied to many other fields, including digital security, where non-linear solutions like smadav antivirus offer flexible protection options for users. Thanks for sharing this insightful post!

  6. Fascinating dive into hypertext and its literary evolution! The non-linear storytelling in works like Patchwork Girl and Califa really showcases the unique power of hypertext fiction to engage readers in dynamic, interactive ways. Thanks for sharing!

  7. The discussion on hypertext fiction is fascinating — it’s amazing how nonlinear storytelling can create such an engaging reader experience. For those who enjoy exploring interactive and creative digital content, getmods offers a variety of unique apps and tools that complement this kind of innovative storytelling.

  8. Great explanation of hypertext and hypertext fiction! It’s fascinating how early works like Afternoon, a Story or Patchwork Girl showed the potential of interactive reading long before today’s digital platforms. Hyperlinks not only changed literature but also influenced how we experience content on the web in general. For example, I often use Yacine TV
    to explore sports and entertainment streams, and it reminds me how links create a non-linear, immersive experience for users—very similar to hypertext fiction in literature.

  9. This is a really helpful breakdown of hypertext and hypertext fiction. I found the examples like Afternoon, a Story and Patchwork Girl especially interesting it’s fascinating how these works changed the way readers interact with literature.

  10. Interesting breakdown of hypertext and hypertext fiction. It’s amazing how early works like Afternoon, a Story and Patchwork Girl really shaped the way digital storytelling evolved. Just like these authors experimented with non-linear structures, a good Bathroom Remodeling Company often needs to think outside the box to design layouts that aren’t just functional but also creative and unique to each homeowner’s vision.

  11. Hypertext in the late age of print has transformed how we consume and interact with written material. Instead of reading long texts linearly, today’s digital readers jump between links, references, and embedded media — creating fragmented but richer experiences. This shift also means our attention spans and reading speeds vary widely from person to person. If you’re curious about how long it might take to read a particular online article or hypertext document, you can easily calculate reading time with this handy tool. It’s part of a collection of free calculators that help readers and writers plan their time more efficiently.

  12. This is such a clear and insightful breakdown of hypertext and hypertext fiction. I especially enjoyed the examples like *Afternoon, a Story* and *Patchwork Girl*—it’s fascinating to see how these works transformed the way readers engage with literature. Magis TV Gratis

  13. The history of hypertext is fascinating, especially how early works like “Afternoon, a Story” set the stage for today’s interactive media. It reminds me of how design and technology keep evolving in other fields too. For example, when I researched options for a new entry door, I found marylandwindowsdoors.com marylandwindowsdoors.com
    really helpful for understanding modern materials and styles.

  14. I love how hypertext fiction lets readers choose their own path—it feels similar to customizing an experience in real life. That’s something I look for when picking services for my family. When we needed gentle dental care for my niece, sparklingcharmsdentistry.com stood out because they focus on making visits comfortable and interactive, just like a choose-your-own-adventure story.

  15. This is such a clear and insightful explanation of hypertext and hypertext fiction. I especially appreciated the examples like Afternoon, a Story and Patchwork Girl—it’s fascinating to see how these works reshaped the way readers interact with literature. sassa status check

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *