RECONFIGURING NARRATIVE

Hypertext has taken many forms even in this early stage, few of which grant readers the kind of power one expects in informational hypertext. Meaning that because it is fiction and they are exploring narrative they cannot be guaranteed satisfaction, they may pave the way through their story but they do not have complete control, that belongs with the hypertext author.

Hyperfiction that demands intervention by readers or otherwise empowers them, will not on those grounds alone turn out to surpass hyperfiction that employs links to solidify, indeed amplify, the power of the author.

Hypertext narrative clearly takes a wide range of forms best understood in terms of a number of aces, including those formed by degrees or ratios of reader choice, intervention and empowerment. Inclusion of extralinguistic texts like images, motion and sound. Complexity of network structure. Degrees of multiplicity and variation in literary elements such as plot, charaterization, setting and so forth.

Hypertext always ends because readings always end, but they can end in fatigue or in a sense of satisfying closure. It is up to the reader to decide on a satisfying narrative set and conclusion that suits their individual needs.