Recalling the Ghosts of 9/11: Convergent Memorializing at the Opening of the National 9/11 Memorial

Authors

  • Aaron Hess Arizona State University
  • Art Herbig Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne

Abstract

This study examines the physical and digital existence of the National 9/11 Memorial located at Ground Zero inNew York Cityas it stood on September 12, 2011. Through a rhetorical analysis of the interplay between the physical memorial and its digital smartphone applications (apps), we argue that the digital apps create a contradictory, paradoxical experience of the physical memorial. Whereas the memorial invites public reflection moving toward a sense of renewal, the digital apps privatize the experience through archives of information and images that suspend the events of 9/11 as a perpetual trauma. Such convergent technologies challenge the memorializing process, providing information in place of imagination.

Author Biographies

Aaron Hess, Arizona State University

Aaron HessAssistant ProfessorSchool of Letters and SciencesLanguages and CulturesArizona State University411 N. Central AvePhoenix, AZ 85004

Art Herbig, Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne

Art HerbigDepartment of CommunicationIndiana University–Purdue University Fort WayneNeff Hall2101 E. Coliseum Blvd.Fort Wayne, IN 46805 

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Published

2013-10-15

Issue

Vol. 7 (2013)

Section

Articles

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