That’s a question Frank Rose tries to answer in his book “The Art of Immersion”. One of the statements he makes is this:
After centuries of linear storytelling, we are witnessing the emergence of a new form of narrative that’s native to the Internet.
But that’s not really a new statement. And what’s more – it’s missing a main point. He’s talking about a form of narrative that’s native to the Internet. And of course, we’re living in the age of internet. But the thing is: narratives are not about being native to the medium, but narratives are about being native to the people who follow them. Natives are meant to be listened to, and told by, human beings.
And the way we human beings consume narratives is essentially the same.
The one thing that really is changing is that many of the limitations what we previously had will slowly turn into possibilities. This will enable us to keep telling narratives more freely and creatively.
I haven’t read the book yet – and I’m judging it by it’s cover. But we should remember that with the advent of every new medium, there have always been claims that this will forever change the way stories are being told. And nobody doubts that a team of highly paid professionals and specialized experts do a better job at creating a compelling narrative than you or I could on our own. But isn’t it funny that kids still enjoy listening to a good night story being read to them? In a very linear fashion, without special effects?
So far, I’m missing the point (that’s worth telling) Rose tries to make. But then, maybe that’s because I haven’t read the book…
I’ll start out with Frank Rose’s Deep Media blog first though (and peek in on his twitter account occasionally). Despite the praise his book received, it hasn’t hooked me yet.