"An infinitude of Possible Worlds": towards a research method for hypertext fiction

Jordan, Spencer

Abstract

While the investigation of creative writing as a research method is gathering apace, little work has been done into the specific case of hypertext fiction (fiction written through a digital medium). This paper argues that, while there remain certain similarities between paper-based and digital texts, fundamental differences in design and construction remain. If hypertext fictions are to be successfully understood, then the role and purpose of the digital writer needs to be more fully analysed as part of the creative process. This paper argues that Possible Worlds Theory offers a way forward. With its focus on the ontological structures created by hypertext fiction, Possible World Theory actively embraces narrative indeterminacy and ontological changeability. In this sense the method provides a structured means by which the creative manipulation of the unique affordances of a digital medium by a writer can be theorised.

Citation

Jordan, S. (2014). "An infinitude of Possible Worlds": towards a research method for hypertext fiction. International Journal for the Practice and Theory of Creative Writing, 11(3), https://doi.org/10.1080/14790726.2014.932390

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 22, 2014
• Online Publication Date: Jul 10, 2014
• Publication Date: Sep 15, 2014
• Deposit Date: Mar 11, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 11, 2016
• Journal: New Writing
• Electronic ISSN: 1479-0726
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 11
• Issue: 3
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14790726.2014.932390
• Keywords: Hypertext, digital, fiction, research, method, interactivity
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/735916
• Publisher URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14790726.2014.932390
• Additional Information: The Version of Record of this manuscript has been published and is available in New Writing (2014) www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14790726.2014.932390
• Contract Date: Mar 11, 2016