Reflection:
Translating a story into emojis required me to consider the unique qualities of digital writing. I started with the title, which was a great challenge. Capturing the essence of the title in a few emojis was important, as it serves as the first point of connection for anyone trying to guess the work. I had to decide whether to
1. translate the title literally, using emojis that directly represent the words in the title;
2. find a metaphorical meaning, using emojis that capture the deeper or symbolic meaning of the title; or
3. use physical images, selecting emojis that visually depict elements of the title in a way that readers can easily understand.
I chose the last option since the title was a proper noun, and a literal or metaphorical translation might not clearly convey the specific name to the readers. I figured a visual representation would make the title more recognizable and comprehensible.
The process of translating a title into emojis mirrors the broader challenges of translating traditional writing into digital writing. Just as I had to decide whether to use literal, metaphorical, or visual representations for the title, digital authors must consider how to effectively convey information in a medium that blends text, images, and interactivity. Bolter notes that “electronic text takes on shapes that Web designers and other digital authors deem appropriate to the computer’s capacity to structure and present information” (2001). This requires digital writers to think beyond traditional linear text and leverage the multimedia capabilities of digital platforms to enhance comprehension and engagement. The challenge of making a proper noun recognizable through emojis parallels the challenge of making content engaging and understandable in digital formats, highlighting the evolving nature of writing in the digital age.
For my synopsis, I focused on representing key plot points and character traits with emojis that fit the plot diagram. I referenced IMDb’s summary of the movie and added some missing parts since it was the briefest summary I could find. I had to consider the audience that would decipher my emojis and decided to rely more on ideas and major plot points rather than syllables or individual words. Emojis are a visual language, so capturing the essence of the story through recognizable symbols was more effective than trying to represent every single word. This aligns with what Bolter (2001) highlights about how electronic writing combines the best attributes of various forms of writing: the precision of print, the adaptability of handwriting, and the visual richness of hieroglyphics. This makes electronic writing a versatile and powerful medium in the digital age.
Overall, this exercise has shown me the complexities and creative potential of digital writing. Translating a story into emojis is not just a fun activity but a profound way to explore how meaning is constructed and conveyed in modern digital contexts. It has expanded my understanding of how we can use visual elements to enhance storytelling and make it accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.
Bolter, J. D. (2001). Writing space: Computers, hypertext, and the remediation of print (2nd ed). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.