PlainText

Plaintexts are limited to the capabilities of pencil and paper leaving the
rest up to the talents of the author. Some opponents of hypertexts argue that
the reader's imagination is restricted since hypertexts supply the images and
sounds. However, I believe misinterpretation of plaintexts is a more common
occurrence, since the author did not have the simple option of adding a picture.
In addition, viewers of hypertexts can compare and contrast their own ideas with
those of the author. The transformation from plaintext to hypertext begins by
identifying the chosen piece of plaintext. In general, plaintexts need to stripped
of any excess information and made into a concise message as a first step in the process.
Next, adding necessary highlights, such as boldface typing the title and italicizing
words of emphasis, are addressed. We begin with the summarized short story below.

Embodied Darkness

The body lies still on a cloud of softness. The eyes quicken with faith
in nothing, but the reverse flashing photo booth bits that form the
collage of nature's entertainment. The undulating motion of the breast
assumes the hypnotic pendulum needed to achieve ultimate solace. Suddenly,
the security in escape shatters like a falling mirror. The shadow
retrieves a shard of silver glass and taunts its creator. What must become
of the child when it forsakes it's parent? Extermination of the being which
led a warped existence. The shadow lunges with all its evil to impress a icy,
cold stake into it's vulnerable master, but the dark figure is disintegrated
by the warm yellow sphere.

Suggestions? Comments?

Dionicio L. Rodriguez
University of Texas at Austin