Hypertext
Hypertext is a form of interactivity that the reader has on the text being read. The uses of hypertext have been applied most notably in computer interfaces, including the Internet. Part of hypertext's interactivity comes from the user clicking or hovering over various elements with a mouse. Hypertext comes in multiple forms aside from the internet, sometimes in the form of computer discs, documents, or software.
Inevitably people begin to believe that hypertext is highly controlled by the viewer and less input is contributed from the author. This assumption being highly wrong, the author has more control of the way in which it is read instead of a novelist. Since hypertext are most notably viewed in computer interfaces they are kept within the confinds of the computer screen. An author can manipulate the reading experience even further seen in Patchwork Girl with unfamiliar interface, changing window shapes and sizes, and a heavily webbed story. The author might also allow a completely linear story as in the Crazy Quilt part and not allow the reader to skip around in the work.
Hypertext Fiction
Hypertext fiction is a form of new media that allows the reader or user to read a story in a non-linear path. How the user interacts with the story is limitless, from clicking a link that moves the reader to next event, or finding a path that leads you to one of multiple endings.
Types and Uses of Hypertext
Hypertext documents can either be static (prepared and stored in advance) or dynamic (continually changing in response to user input). Static hypertext can be used to cross-reference collections of data in documents, software applications, or books on CD. A well-constructed system can also incorporate other user-interface conventions, such as menus and command lines. Hypertext can develop very complex and dynamic systems of linking and cross-referencing. The most famous implementation of hypertext is the World Wide Web. One of the most notable implementations of hypertext is Hypercard, which was introduced in 1987.
(Dave: The last section here on uses is good, the first two sections need work. This seems to be a rather straight forward explanation of hypertext (which is good), but some additional layers need to be added in. For example is hypertext really more interactive or more deterministic? is hypertext limited to new media (for example Pale Fire or the Iching or choose your own adventure)? Also worth adding in links to other examples within this wiki and outside this wiki.)
Examples/Links of Hypertext
Lolita and KateModern are the first two hypertexts covered in Storytelling for New Media -- Lolita is static and Kate Modern is dynamic. A few other hypertexts covered in the lectures include:
See Digital Narrative for more details.
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