Virtual Muse: Experiments in Computer Poetry (Wesleyan Poetry Series) - Softcover

Hartman, Charles O.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0819522392 ISBN 13: 9780819522399

Publisher: Wesleyan University Press, 1996

Synopsis

In this engaging, accessible memoir, Charles Hartman shows how computer programming has helped him probe poetry's aesthetic possibilities. He discusses the nature of poetry itself and his experiences with primitive computer-generated poetry programs and -- illustrated with sample computer-produced verses -- traces the development of more advanced hardware and software. The central question about this cyber-partnership, Hartman says, "isn't exactly whether a poet or a computer writes the poem, but what kinds of collaboration might be interesting." He examines the effects of randomness, arbitrariness, and contingency on poetic composition, concluding that "the tidy dance among poet and text and reader creates a game of hesitation. In this game, a properly programmed computer has a chance to slip in some interesting moves."

About this title

From the Publisher:

5 1/2 x 8 1/2 trim. 3 figs. LC 96-16074

From the Back Cover:

In this engaging, accessible memoir, Charles Hartman shows how computer programming has helped him probe poetry's aesthetic possibilities. He discusses the nature of poetry itself and his experiences with primitive computer-generated poetry programs and --illustrating his book with sample computer-produced verses-traces the development of more advanced hardware and software.

About this edition

• Publisher: Wesleyan University Press
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0819522392
• ISBN 13: 9780819522399
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 164