Compression we live by: cognitive dynamics and strategies of compression as a viable tool of composition in micronarrative

This paper argues that compression is a hallmark of creativity, demonstrating how textual compression is processed cognitively in the mind. Compression means not only simple brevity but also concentration of high ideational density into a sparse space or medium, so it reinforces information transfer from the sender to the recipient by squeezing extended ideas into an accessible human scale. This study suggests some cognitive strategies by which creative compression can be encoded and decoded in the light of some relevant theories, including conceptual blending, metaphor, framing, omission and abstraction. It draws on cognitive science in order to emphasize the cognitive and developmental necessity of the conscious practice and application of these compression strategies as viable tools for creative writing and micronarrative.