An Introduction to Hypertext poetry

"Firefly," created by  Deena Larsen, is hypertext poem. Reading "Firefly" is a completely interactive experience which requires readers to make their own way through the text by clicking on each of the 6 lined stanzas.  Each time a reader clicks a line different faucets of the story are revealed.  Readers remain in control of the lyrical poem by choosing how the story will play out according to the decisions they make to reveal new text. What makes this work unique is that unlike traditional poetry, "Firefly" cannot be read linearly, instead a multi-dimensional space is provided for readers to explore meaning, subtext and context of the poetry.  With  180 different ways in which to reveal the text, Larsen call her work, "a tale told in 180 degrees of separation."

"Firefly" is a successful use of new media techniques to bring new life and dimension to the traditional art of poetry.  By using more traditional design and composition in conjunction with the interactive and non-linear possibilities of the Internet, "Firefly" is able to provide readers with an engaging and truly personal experience unlike any other.