Gibble-Gabble: A Digital Literary Blog
Date of Award
Spring 5-10-2025
Document Type
Honors Project
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Communication and Digital Studies
Department Chair or Program Director
Whalen, Zach
First Advisor
Estes, Lindley
Major or Concentration
Communication and Digital Studies
Abstract
Gibble-Gabble is a digital literary blog created as a sanctuary for readers who appreciate intellectually challenging literature. This project delivers diverse content through video essays, opinion pieces, listicles, book recommendations, and elements of photojournalism. It establishes a unique space in the online literary landscape by blending formal academic analysis with magazine-style journalism and personal essay elements, creating content more substantive than traditional blog content yet more palatable than scholarly writing. Through thoughtful literary engagement with classics and contemporary works of merit, Gibble-Gabble criticizes concerning trends in online literary spaces: the increasing prevalence of vapid romance novels, the promotion of unsustainable consumerism through "book hauls" on TikTok, and declining literary standards through self-publishing on social media. Gibble-Gabble's distinct voice combines formal elements reflecting high-brow literary appreciation with conversational, snarky commentary that builds authenticity and credibility with readers. While initially conceived for English students and former academics longing for traditional pedagogical discussions, Gibble-Gabble has evolved into a more broadly accessible platform for anyone passionate about the artistic merit of literature. Gibble-Gabble's content varies, from visual storytelling to video essays to curated book recommendations and visually engaging photojournalism, appealing to different interests and online engagement preferences. Future development plans include regular posting and expanding outreach through social media platforms to connect with more book lovers disillusioned with the current literary trends.
URL of Digital Project
Original Project URL: https://gibblegabble.net/
Archived Project URL:
https://umw.access.preservica.com/IO_14484e00-a1a7-4e84-a9ed-8f679432ba8b/
Recommended Citation
McGovern, Layla A., "Gibble-Gabble: A Digital Literary Blog" (2025). Departmental Honors & Graduate Capstone Projects. 663.
https://scholar.umw.edu/student_research/663