Rhetoric of the Page

The book "Blank Space: The Rhetoric of the Page" explores the paradoxical nature of blank space, which is both nothing and something, and its creative potential for readers and writers. It examines physical gaps, marks of incompletion, and the asterisk as stand-ins for unspoken things, showing how mise-en-page influences readers like rhetoric.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2020
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This captivating and expansive book delves into the enigmatic realm of blank space, spanning from the incunabula to the digital age of Google books. Blanks present a fascinating paradox, simultaneously embodying the absence of substance and hinting at what once existed or could potentially emerge. They also serve as a fertile ground for both readers and writers, as readers engage with the void and writers anticipate and respond to that response. Consequently, blank space fosters literary and ludic applications, enriching the reading experience.

The book is organized into chapters, each dedicated to a specific typographical form of what is absent on the page. Chapter One explores physical gaps, Chapter Two examines marks of incompletion such as "&c," and Chapter Three explores the asterisk as a placeholder for unspeakable thoughts. By examining the early-modern page as a visual and verbal unit, the volume demonstrates how the interplay between textual layout and textual content is mutually beneficial for writers and readers alike.

Mise-en-page, the art of arranging the elements on a page, exerts a profound influence on readers in much the same way as rhetoric does. It is possible to speak of the rhetoric of the page, highlighting the persuasive power and aesthetic appeal of the visual composition.

Through its comprehensive exploration of blank space, this book offers valuable insights into the dynamics of textual communication and the creative possibilities it presents. It encourages readers to appreciate the nuances and complexities of the written word and encourages writers to harness the power of blank space to enhance their craft. Whether you are a reader, writer, or simply someone intrigued by the mysteries of language and communication, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the literary and visual world.

Weight: 642g
Dimension: 165 x 241 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198862109