The New Fiction Technologies: Interactivity, Agency and Digital Narratology

The Internet has changed our perceptions of narrative and its core components, leading to the emergence of new trends, tropes, and conventions in digital media like web comics, video games, and fan fiction. This book explores the common ground these media share and how their processes, motivations, and evolution may be more similar than we think, potentially helping to understand the future of narrative storytelling.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

The Internet has brought about a significant transformation in our understanding of narrative and its fundamental elements, encompassing authorship, setting, characterization, reader reception, and more. In this dynamic digital age, new trends, tropes, and conventions emerge at an astonishing pace, giving rise to innovative forms of digital media such as web comics, video games, and fan fiction. These platforms have become fertile grounds for exploring the boundaries of contemporary storytelling, pushing the limits of creativity and imagination.

While web comics, video games, and fan fiction have garnered considerable scholarly attention, this book specifically focuses on the shared characteristics and evolutionary processes they exhibit. These media are recognized as distinct genres of digital fiction, and this book aims to bridge the gap between them. By recognizing these phenomena as expressions of the same underlying principles, we can gain valuable insights into the future of narrative storytelling.

The Internet has revolutionized the way we consume and create narratives, enabling a diverse range of voices and perspectives to come to the forefront. It has democratized the process of storytelling, allowing individuals from all backgrounds to participate and contribute to the narrative landscape. The rise of social media and online communities has further facilitated the exchange of ideas and collaboration, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem of storytelling.

Web comics, video games, and fan fiction have emerged as powerful tools for storytelling, offering unique perspectives and experiences that traditional media cannot replicate. These media allow for interactive engagement, allowing readers and players to actively participate in the narrative and shape its outcome. They also offer a level of depth and complexity that traditional storytelling methods may struggle to achieve, with rich narratives, intricate characters, and immersive worlds.

However, the rise of digital media has also brought about challenges and complexities. One of the primary concerns is the issue of authorship and ownership. With the ease of creation and distribution, there is a risk of plagiarism and copyright infringement, particularly in the case of fan fiction and fan art. Additionally, the blurring of boundaries between professional and amateur creators has raised questions about the legitimacy and value of digital fiction.

Despite these challenges, the future of narrative storytelling looks bright. The continued evolution of technology and the increasing accessibility of digital platforms will continue to fuel the growth and innovation of digital fiction. We can expect to see more diverse and inclusive narratives, with a greater emphasis on representation and diversity. We will also see the integration of other forms of media, such as augmented reality and virtual reality, to create even more immersive and interactive storytelling experiences.

In conclusion, the Internet has profoundly impacted our perceptions of narrative and its core components. Web comics, video games, and fan fiction have emerged as powerful tools for storytelling, offering unique perspectives and experiences that traditional media cannot replicate. While there are challenges and complexities to navigate, the future of narrative storytelling looks bright, with the potential for even greater innovation and creativity. As we continue to explore the boundaries of contemporary storytelling, we will gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and the power of narrative to shape our world.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476679143