Maps and Iconic Imagery:

Conceptual maps or plans of the physical and narrative space are essential to the maker; they also establish a world view for the viewer or participant. Current Hypertext browsers propel users through cyberspace without providing any form of overview or map. In contrast, architectural plans and street maps provide visualizations of spatial relationships with few or no conceptual metalinks. Game boards and Buddhist Mandalas provide a richer type of navigational paradigm in that they relate a physical model to a metaphysical universe.

In addition to maps, narratives rely on rich iconography which often symbolizes a value system. Iconography of a universe can be folded into a character; from Kali to Scrooge, from the Red Queen to the Tin Man, character iconography allows an innocent participant to "read" narrative intent and acquier expectation. Similarly, iconography can compress the rules and values of a universe into a single location or setting. Iconography can also be used to denote specific resources of power, such as money (Monopoly) or player type and rank (chess). Stylistic types of iconography are often invented to indicate narrative state, as in cinematic transitions and musical themes or refrains. In interactive productions, iconography can be used to flag potential moments of transformation.