Pseudo-modern literature

In browsing the net, I recently came across a fascinating article in which Gary Robinson says that we are past postmodernism (although there are some intellectual remnants). He cites Kirby’s (as cited in Robinson, 2010) view that, in the previous ten years, globalised market economics have swamped postmodernism’s multiplicity of ‘truths’ with a sole, over-powering conformity of ‘consumer fanaticism’.  He calls the current era ‘pseudo-modernism’ and says that “it demands the individual’s active participation” by at least clicking, liking or commenting.  Essentially the ‘audience’ are writing at least part of the content as it happens; and this interactivity is making it difficult to archive, or even record  This includes reality shows where people text or tweet to the ‘actors’; online writing sites where kids are writing, and continually revising, their stories; games like minecraft where players are creating, and destroying, the game as they play; and the ebook where clickable interactive options make it not only non-linear, but virtually endless. 

It’s challenging being a librarian in this environment.

Robinson, G. D. (2010, May 27). What comes after postmodernism?: An evolving culture. Breakpoint. Retrieved from http://www.breakpoint.org/features-columns/articles/entry/12/14560