Electronic Literature

Electronic literature can help the reader experience storytelling in an unique, and entertaining way. The use of visual, or auditory aids that are often employed in E-Literature can guide the reader to a greater understanding of the material, that simply may not possible with more orthodox print literature.

One such example of E-literature that utilizes google maps to aid in visualization, and add plot context is Mr. Plimpton's Revenge. The story begins with the Dinty Moore being tasked with picking up the famous author, George Plimpton, from the airport. The story is conveyed through map destinations that correlate with specific plot points in the story. An example of this storytelling mechanic would be when Moore picks up Mr.Plimpton from the airport, the map shows the exact airport being mentioned in the story. This allows the reader to picture, with greater accuracy, the events that unfolded throughout Moore’s adventures with Plimpton. Another interesting advantage of the E-lit format of Mr.Plimpton's revenge is the ability to convey emotions in a greater capacity than might be possible with standard print literature.

 

Mr. Plimpton's Revenge, brings an interesting concept and with an array of emotions like, guilt, shame, and anxiety together with the use of technology and storytelling.  Moore, adds a completely new dimension on this kind of story by bringing the reader along with the main character though his journey with the use of Google Maps. Writing a small portion of the tale at every stop on the map, giving the reader a sense of suspense and a real feeling of actually taking a journey along with the main character. Electronic literature brings a whole new dimension to the field of writing and storytelling, allowing for even greater access to the human psyche than ever before. Breathing new life into the oldest and possibly most cherished art humankind, the idea of telling a story.

Electronic literature is something that will continue to grow as long as technology also continues to grow. Adding new dimensions of writing styles and techniques gives each reader a different experience. Being able to physically interact with a work makes learning and reading more fascinating. There are so many aspects of digital literature in the electronic world to explore and anyone can get started at The Electronic Literature Collection.

Alex, Pete and Cassie