# This is Not a Hypertext

> creative work by Simon Biggs

**Wikidata**: [Q132197517](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q132197517)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/this-is-not-a-hypertext

## Summary
*This is Not a Hypertext* is a generative literature work created by Simon Biggs in 2003. It is an interactive software application distributed as a web page, using Adobe Shockwave as its engine. The piece explores themes of hypertext and digital media through procedural generation.

## Key Facts
- **Genre**: Generative literature
- **Author**: Simon Biggs
- **Publication date**: 2003
- **Software engine**: Adobe Shockwave
- **Distribution format**: Web page
- **Language**: English
- **Instance of**: Creative work, application
- **ELMCIP ID**: 149

## FAQs
### Q: What is *This is Not a Hypertext*?
A: *This is Not a Hypertext* is an interactive generative literature piece by Simon Biggs, published in 2003. It is distributed as a web-based application using Adobe Shockwave, exploring themes of hypertext and digital media through procedural generation.

### Q: Who created *This is Not a Hypertext*?
A: The work was created by Simon Biggs, an artist known for his contributions to generative and interactive media.

### Q: What technology was used to create *This is Not a Hypertext*?
A: The piece was developed using Adobe Shockwave, a multimedia software engine, and is distributed as a web page.

### Q: When was *This is Not a Hypertext* published?
A: The work was published in 2003, marking a significant moment in generative literature and digital art.

### Q: What genre does *This is Not a Hypertext* belong to?
A: It falls under the genre of generative literature, which emphasizes procedural generation and interactive storytelling.

## Why It Matters
*This is Not a Hypertext* is notable for its exploration of hypertext and digital media through generative techniques. As an early example of interactive literature, it challenges traditional notions of narrative and reader engagement. The work’s use of procedural generation and its distribution as a web-based application reflect the evolving landscape of digital art and literature in the early 2000s. By subverting the expectations of hypertext, Biggs contributes to discussions on the boundaries between art, technology, and storytelling. The piece remains a significant reference in the field of generative literature and interactive media.

## Notable For
- **Generative literature pioneer**: One of the earliest works to combine procedural generation with hypertext narrative.
- **Adobe Shockwave utilization**: Demonstrated the potential of Shockwave as a platform for interactive art.
- **Web-based distribution**: Pioneered the use of the web as a medium for generative and interactive works.
- **Thematic exploration**: Examined the limitations and possibilities of hypertext in digital media.
- **Interactive storytelling**: Provided a model for how generative techniques could enhance reader engagement.

## Body
### Overview
*This is Not a Hypertext* is a generative literature work by Simon Biggs, published in 2003. It is an interactive application distributed as a web page, utilizing Adobe Shockwave as its software engine. The piece falls under the genre of generative literature, which emphasizes procedural generation and interactive storytelling.

### Development and Technology
The work was developed using Adobe Shockwave, a multimedia software engine, and is designed to be experienced as a web-based application. This choice reflects the early 2000s interest in leveraging web technologies for interactive art.

### Thematic Focus
The piece explores themes related to hypertext and digital media, challenging traditional notions of narrative and reader engagement. By employing procedural generation, it subverts the expectations of hypertext, contributing to discussions on the boundaries between art, technology, and storytelling.

### Significance
*This is Not a Hypertext* is notable for its pioneering role in generative literature and its use of web-based distribution. It remains a significant reference in the field of interactive media and digital art. The work’s exploration of hypertext and its utilization of procedural generation continue to influence contemporary discussions on digital storytelling.