Texts Set in Motion. Performative Conceptions in the Study of Leszek Onak’s Cybernetic Poetry

Abstract

The present paper tackles the issue of studies of the new literary phenomenon, that is cybernetic poetry in Poland. The works by Leszek Onak, one of the main representatives of this current, are a special subject of the study. The author of the article suggests that – due to an innovative character of the literature that uses the new media – the traditional methodology of literary studies should be enriched with performative conceptions. He tries to prove that owing to such a perspective works that apparently are devoid of any content may be interpreted. The significance of action and motion is emphasized, that are the basic properties of cybernetic poetry works. Also a literary work as an act – an author’s performative gesture – is subjected to interpretation.