ABSTRACT
How do the examples in this chapter help us understand the practice of storytelling in the mobile media age? Looking at the emerging practices of “checking in” to a location using locationbased social media, this chapter argues that such platforms for social interactivity tell us very little about our network, our interactions, and our places. Location is not compelling. To state it more accurately: your location is not compelling. While location may not be compelling, stories are, and this chapter explores various ways to “misuse” existing locative social networks for narrative purposes. Beginning with the thought that GPS receivers are made for storytelling (yet predominately offer only an impoverished notion of place), this chapter seeks to reconcile the poor connection between locational tools and narrative. The connection between these categories is explored by discussing a storytelling practice called “Haunts,” which uses existing locative social media to tell stories.
