LiteraryDJ is a creative research project exploring how computational tools and interactive interfaces can open new ways to read, write, and engage with literature, poetry, and lyrics. Inspired by DJing, sampling, and remix culture, we treat literary texts not only as objects to analyze but as material people can manipulate, combine, and reinterpret.

Our VIP Team will design and investigate creative technologies that make these ideas tangible. Projects might include building tools that use natural language processing to sample and recombine texts; developing games and generative writing experiences; designing visualizations that reveal patterns in literature and music; experimenting with quantum and probabilistic approaches to writing; and creating physical controllers, interactive kiosks, and exhibits for classrooms, galleries, and public events. The team will build on existing LiteraryDJ research, software, and installations while creating space for students to propose their own investigations.

Our research asks: How do interfaces change the way we read and interpret texts? What happens when readers can choose how an algorithm remixes a text and can see where the results came from? How can creative play help people engage critically with computational systems and literary histories?

Students from the humanities, arts, computing, and other fields will collaborate from question formation through research, design, prototyping, evaluation, and public presentation. No specific major or programming background is required. Students can develop technical, creative, or scholarly expertise while contributing to multi-semester projects.