The
world as we know it has been vastly shaped by the inner workings of the
internet and its readily available content. In a way, we have swapped out print
texts for online media—a faster, more hyper-realistic method of receiving news
and information. For example, almost all online news sources—anything from CNN
to The Atlantic to the arguably questionable Facebook—have evolved their
presentation of written material into new age “hypertexts.” Overall, Neal
explains the purpose of hypertexts to revolve around the nonlinear spreading of
information, or a text that is defined by its connectivity to other texts
(mainly as a way to enhance its own argument).
Honestly,
I can’t remember the last time I read digital material that wasn’t a hypertext. Almost all social
networks are built around the entire idea of producing hypertexts in order to
link individuals to other news stories and vice versa. Most of the news
articles I read link me to YouTube videos, embedded social media posts, or even
other articles to further their point. Even the publication I intern for, Study
Breaks Magazine, encourages the use of producing hypertexts. Writers are
instructed to provide multiple hyperlinks within a piece in place of the usual
citation in order to connect readers to original sources or further information
to strengthen his/her personal argument.
When
reading a hypertext, you must consider the implications of opening all further links
and connections provided. A well-written source of information can be read in
full without forcing the reader to turn to the links provided to fully understand
the piece, however, I do believe that such connections can not only enhance the
writer’s argument, but can also make him/her more reliable and the information
more enjoyable to read.
For
example, I just recently read a review of a newly released and long awaited
series reboot riddled with hyperlinks to other reviews, cast interviews, and
trailer videos. I diligently clicked on every link and quickly found myself
enjoying all of the extra information, easily convinced that the connections
made to other sources by the original text made my reading experience more
enjoyable and provided me with much more knowledge and information than it
could have granted alone.
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