The Digital Illusion: Writing in a Post-Analog World 

While it is true that all writing can be considered digital in a historical or etymological sense – referring to the use of fingers or coding systems – this interpretation becomes less applicable when we define and locate digital rhetoric. In this context, digital rhetoric refers specifically to writing and communication mediated by modern digital technologies, which distinguishes it from analog practices. 

Defining Digital and Analog Writing as Distinct Practices 

The separation of binary writing from material constraints allows for cyber creations to become simulacra: representation that no longer has a connection to the original thing. Being encoded in binary allows for the analog work to become highly reproduced. This allows for cohesion in producing the “perfect replication.” Analog work tends to stay grounded in its material roots while simulated writing emphasizes reproducibility, connectivity and interactivity through networked systems.  

The Power of Digital as an Organizing Tool 

Virtual and analog writing are distinct practices and should be valued as such. Networked tools have the unique ability to reorganize texts through processes such as digitization, remixing or reprinting. The digital systems wield the power to reinterpret analog texts. Restructuring to create new layers of meaning, fluidity and complete independence. However, this work can create breaks in the illusion of seamlessness.  

Understanding the Simulacra

Fissures occur when the illusion of originality is broken by the encoded nature of bits and discrete values. The constructed nature of digital artifacts enables fragmentation, glitches and error – revealing the gaps between the tangible original and reproduction. The rhetorical power of online texts lies in the ability to simulate realities. However, there is an inherent disconnect from physicality that challenges authenticity. Fissures occur when audiences encounter limitations. Misalignment in expectation of automated technology allows for the removal of an archive or book from the internet. That is if one has internet access altogether.