Riveted in the Word 1.0.4

Riveted in the Word is an innovative electronic book that draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of a writer's struggle to reclaim language following a debilitating stroke. Created by author and visual literature pioneer Warren Lehrer, this multimedia book app immerses readers in the cognitive journey of a retired history professor grappling with Broca Aphasia. The custom-designed interface allows users to navigate between columns of text at their own pace, interspersed with animated segments that vividly illustrate the dissonance between thoughts, memories, and the words required for expression.

This poignant narrative about overcoming formidable challenges is articulated through the dynamic use of kinetic typography, expertly choreographed by Lehrer. Additionally, an original soundtrack composed by Andrew Griffin complements the visual experience. Developed by electronic literature specialist Artemio Morales at AltSalt, this e-edition of Riveted in the Word is compatible with iPad, iPhone, and Mac computers (system 12 and above).

Dr. Jean Paul Curtay, a member of the New York Academy of Sciences, highlights Lehrer’s work as a profound exploration of the traumatic implications of losing one’s ability to communicate due to a stroke. He notes how Lehrer transforms this harrowing experience into a narrative filled with hope, encouraging readers to engage with the piece in a reflective setting.

David Jhave Johnson, a digital poet and media artist, commends the book as a sincere work of mediated fiction that provides an insightful glimpse into the rehabilitation process post-stroke. He praises the inventive use of text animations that mirror psychological challenges during recovery and offers congratulations to Lehrer and his collaborators for crafting such a readable and impactful piece.

Frédéric Chauvreau, Editorial Director of Revue Poésies Plastiques, describes Riveted in the Word as transcending typical e-book boundaries through its immersive typographic cinema. The text conveys an intimate narrative that resonates deeply when paired with a captivating soundtrack, creating a unique and emotionally resonant reading experience.