Love as narrative drive: Level 26: dark origins and transmedia storytelling

Abstract

Throughout history, the discourse surrounding love has seen myriad interpretations since ancient Greek times. In the tapestry of European literature's evolution, the novel's intimate exploration of personal realms has elevated love as a pivotal driving force shaping characters' actions. This intrinsic link between the novel and love has become a focal point for examination. Our objective is to analyze the transmedia novel Level 26: Dark Origins (2009) by Anthony E. Zuiker and Duane Swierczynski. We aim to unravel how the merging of diverse media forms enriches the narrative's exploration of love within its broader thematic framework. This novel stands as an exemplar of transmedia storytelling, seamlessly integrating traditional print narrative with immersive online video content. Drawing insights from esteemed scholars like Henry Jenkins (2009), René Girard (1961), and Erich Fromm (1956), our analysis observes the layers of love portrayed in Level 26: Dark Origins from the romantic and familial to the more shadowy and obsessive aspects. By exploring the intricate complexities of human emotions, this multimedia extension, particularly the video series, accentuates the narrative's visual storytelling prowess, offering a nuanced portrayal of love.