Apprehending Hypertext

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce a theory of apprehension to account for the medium-specific affordances of spatial hypertext. User engagement with spatial hypertext far exceeds conventional cognitive processes of reading, writing, and “wreading”, which have hitherto dominated hypertext theory in the humanities. We argue that the linear implications of reading “pathways” of nodes, following explicit hyperlinks, need replacing with a more holistic concept that reflects parallel, subconscious processing, selective attention, implicit linking and varied response. In its deliberate fuzziness, apprehension captures the platform-specific affordances of spatial hypertext while simultaneously engendering numerous concomitant actions, which may include reading and writing but cannot be limited to them. We illustrate our approach with a discussion of StoryMachine, a spatial hypertext application combining augmentation and automation built for a broad user base and a variety of use cases from creative writing through museum curatorship and education.