Pathos, Vectors, Mist

Abstract: 

Can computer produce affect, that is, pathos? This essay makes the case that while the distinction between syntax and semantics prohibits such a notion, there are works of digital literature that enact such pathos on a processual level; and that some version of AI might be able to extract affect in a similar way as it can produce semantics – in a limited, "dumb" form.

Author: 
Publication date: 
October 19, 2025
Publication type: 
Journal Article