Abstract
Moving into the new millennium, there is gathering agreement that we have shifted to a non-linear, visual culture. There is much less unanimity on what would be the most advantageous shape for this shift. This manifesto will explore possibilities. Educators have begun to incorporate non-print text into the classroom. Still, too often schools teach children a “language” (written text) that is distinct from the “language” (media) that dominates their lives. This is a situation, which must be addressed to a degree commensurate with its importance. In addition, narrative options are opening up for storytellers to escape the restrictions of the film business. All must remember what a society needs artists to be-- ruthless truth tellers. Digital arts offer ways for even a single author (auteur) to reclaim that orientation by fusing the subtlety and depth of written text with a cinematic flow of emotional images. Redefining (reinvigorating) language is our most pressing cultural issue. This manifesto is a reasoned yet impassioned shout out to educators and artists to join the debate about the shape of a new literacy.