Living Digital Media presents a compelling exploration of the intricate relationships between creators and their digital media productions. It emphasizes that creators are living digital media, meaning they experience a swell of emotions, from love to frustration, as they shape their creations. The core of this work animates a theory of rhetorical-affective practices, shedding light on the dynamic processes and feelings that circulate throughout a production cycle. Rather than focusing on the finished production, this book emphasizes circulation before, during, and after publication. Collaboration, revision, and delivery are framed as key areas of rhetorical practices that pulse with feelings.
Drawing from in-depth interviews with writing studies scholars and game developers, the author provides behind-the-scenes stories and analyses that reveal the vibrant worlds of digital media creators. The book aligns with publication trends in writing studies, encouraging transparency and inclusivity in scholarly production. It also offers insights into how game developers, with their rich history of public and collaborative work, can inspire a reimagining of scholarly practices.
Living Digital Media fills a crucial gap in writing studies by making visible the embodied, felt practices of creators and their affective engagement with digital media. It offers a valuable resource for future creators and scholars navigating the emotional terrain of a production cycle. Living Digital Media ultimately invites readers to rethink the practices and feelings associated with digital media creation. It highlights the importance of storytelling in revealing the affective dimensions of rhetorical practices, contributing to a more inclusive and creative landscape in digital media scholarship.