I propose the performance of “Hyperphrasis: in[ ]determinants”, a collaborative research project that explores the relationship between writing and speech. It employs improvisation in a technologically augmented environment to generate a multilayered experience that enables audience members and participants intuitive access to theoretical questions.

The project utilizes experimental transcription software, developed in collaboration with (poet/programmer) Eran Hadas, to create a transcription environment. The software works as follows: someone speaks into a computer (via microphone), the speech is transcribed and modified; then both the transcription and its modification are projected as multiple parallel texts. Projecting these texts in real-time creates the opportunity for engagement with the polysemy and textuality of speech as it is spoken — inspiring the name: “Hyperphrasis”.

“in[ ]determinants” is a series of poems inspired by the work of John Cage, who spoke about “composition that is indeterminate with respect to its performance”; “in[ ]determinants” explores poetry that is indeterminate with respect to its content. Within the text, these poems include brackets “[ ]” prompting the reader to improvise speech which completes the poem. This invitation to participate turns each reading into a performance that forms a new iteration of the same poem. Furthermore, this improvisation of content accentuates the potential site- and time-specific dimensions of these poems. 

For the SAR2020 conference, I propose the performing of “in[ ]determinants” within the “Hyperphrasis” transcription environment. Overall, the performance will include an introduction, the performance of a number of “in[ ]determinants” by me, followed by inviting members of the audience to “read” the same poems. This participatory experiment aims to create an engaging and thought-provoking activity embodying theoretical questions surrounding the relationship between speech and writing.