Where Ya At? Composing Identity Through Hyperlocal Narratives: A Summary

“This webtext explores how we, as social media users, compose ourselves through place narratives, narratives that take the form of hyperlocal content. “

“Hyperlocalism is devoted to the stories, the news, and the ins and outs of a particular neighborhood, zip code, or group within a specific geographic region.”

The author of this chapter of the book, Devon Fitzgerald Ralston, began blogging as a way to stay connected with others and share stories. Ever since than her fascination with hyperlocal narratives and blogging have fueled her research which culminated in this blog-styled chapter. One of the main questions she asks is how do hyperlocal narratives and identity come together in this digital age.

                One of her first tasks is to define what a neighborhood/community is. She explains that the early definition was based on geographical location and one’s nearness to others. Today, that definition was widened beyond the confines of geographical space, and has broadened to include the online “unbounded communities” that we, as users of the internet and social media, are a part of. They both, however, emphasize the importance of regular interaction among those within the community. 

                A particularly good example she gives to explain the complexities of the expanded definition of community was place bloggers. Place bloggers compose content that is specific to their geographical location. This allows them to connect with other people who are geographically neat to them through the use of social media. Since they are bloggers, they form an online community with other place bloggers whether or not they are blogging about the same place as they are. 

                The conclusion of the research is that hyperlocal narratives are a way to form a community and shape one’s identity. But the narrative must be factually relevant and include emotion, there has to be a significance in connection on every level for a community to feel the full benefits of community. They must also be inclusive of everyone, their stories, and their ideas. Shared experiences and shared interests are what really define communities, and by participating in these bounded and unbounded communities one is able to better form their own identity. 

-By Kailee Snyder