Simulating memory: a technique of memory and narrative in interactive digital media

Abstract

Using a self-made interactive multimedia project ‘The Shoebox’ as a case study, this article first outlines the ‘story’ content of the project and then explores the mechanisms of autobiographical memory and traumatic memory storage and retrieval. Finally, it examines how the interactive platform that underpins ‘The Shoebox’ was created to simulate our processes of autobiographical memory recall. Combining the modes of memory and narrative this media architecture is given the neologism of ‘memoradic narrative’.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes

^1. Last line of ‘Ode to Remembrance’ from For the Fallen a poem by Laurence Binyon (1914). Recited at British Commonwealth memorial services commemorating WWI such as ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday. It is also read at 6 pm nightly, followed by one minute's silence, in RSL clubs throughout Australia.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Janet E. Marles

Dr Janet E. Marles is senior lecturer in Photomedia at James Cook University, Australia, and adjunct senior lecturer, with the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Her current research is a multimedia project portraying survivor experiences of World War II in Brunei Darussalam. Janet's extensive career as an editorial photographer, audio-visual producer and short-form filmmaker informs her digital media practice and research.