Ever since hypertext popped it’s blue face into our web navigation, there have been those who have been trying to define the “space” of it. If hypertext is just a link to another page, is it a space at all? This may seem trivial when hypertext is only applied to the web, but when authors try to design fiction around it, this idea of space becomes a more centralized and harder to define concept.
If we think of it as Aarseth (1994) explains, “that the main feature of hypertext is discontinuity—the sudden displacement of the user’s position in the text,” (p. 60). It makes it even more complicated…..hypertext is supposed to connect but it’s main feature is in its discontinuity how can something really have a space if aims to displace?
It really takes one to push themselves beyond the book metaphor and finding familiarity in other spaces we go to for reading and writing, like the web, which has a hyperlinked system. Taking it one step farther, Wardrip-Fruin (2004) proposes that, “rather than think of the Web as a hypertext system, we may do better to think of it as a monumental public publishing space—one that attained critical mass by employing a subset of hypertext concepts, primarily those of the chunk style,” (Wardrip-Fruin, 2004, p. 126).
So what is the final answer?
Well, the hypertext author has to envision and write for a non-linear, puzzle piece or chunk like. A space where choices can be made and new paths can be created. This presentation by Susan M. Gibb articulates this point.
The Author is not just creating a story, they are creating an environment for that story to take place.
References
Aarseth, E. J. (1994). Hyper/Text/Theory. Baltimore: John Hopkins University Press.
Bolter, D., & Grusin, R. (2000). Remediation: Understanding New Media. Massachusetts: MIT Press.
Bromme, R. & Stahl, E. (2004). Is Hypertext a Book or Space? The impact of different introductory metaphors on hypertext construction. Computers & Education, 44, 115-133.
That’s a great point — the “space” of hypertext almost feels like a paradox. It’s meant to connect ideas, yet it thrives on discontinuity, which makes defining its boundaries tricky. In a way, that’s what gives it its unique charm — it’s less about fixed space and more about fluid movement between ideas. Speaking of interactive experiences, you might enjoy traffic rider all bikes unlocked for a completely different kind of navigation.
The “space” of hypertext refers to the non-linear, interconnected environment where information is accessed through linked digital pathways, allowing users to navigate freely between related ideas—much like how a Teacher sign in portal connects educators to various online resources.
The “space” of hypertext refers to the non-linear, interconnected environment where information is accessed through linked digital pathways, allowing users to navigate freely between related ideas—much like how an ai clothes try on platform connects users to different styles and outfit options in one place.
That’s a great point — the “space” of hypertext almost feels like a paradox. It’s designed to connect ideas, yet it thrives on discontinuity, which makes defining its boundaries tricky. In a way, that’s what gives it its unique charm — it’s less about fixed space and more about fluid movement between ideas. Speaking of interactive experiences, you might enjoy exploring a camera photobooth for a completely different kind of navigation.
The way you describe hypertext as a “monumental public publishing space” really resonates. It reminds me of how a well-designed website invites exploration through carefully planned links. I recently browsed easternshorewindowdoor.com
and noticed how their clean layout and seamless navigation make you feel like you’re moving through an open, interactive space, almost like the hypertext experience you’re talking about.
I like your point that the author builds an environment rather than just a story. It’s similar to how a kitchen designer maps out a room so every path and choice matters. When I was checking ideas on kitchenselevated.com
, their gallery felt like a non-linear narrative of possibilities, letting visitors jump between layouts and finishes the way hypertext lets readers jump between ideas.