Dossier Discovery
A Poetic Form by Tristan Robert Lange
Definition
A Dossier Discovery is a literary structure written in the style of an official record— a testimony, report, transcript, or file— in which the act of documentation becomes the revelation.
The poet assumes the role of investigator, witness, or recorder. What’s uncovered is less about evidence than about truth emerging through bureaucracy, memory, or confession.
The form merges narrative, voice play, and visual layout to mimic the rhythm of paperwork while exposing what the document tries to contain.
Core Principles
- Framed as a Document The poem presents itself as some form of record: statement, interview, log, protocol, case file, etc. Use headings, signatures, time stamps, or formatting cues to simulate authenticity.
- Dual Layers Beneath the procedural surface lies a second revelation—emotional, spiritual, social, or moral. The “discovery” happens when what’s between the lines contradicts or deepens what’s written.
- Multi-Voiced Possibility May contain dialogue excerpts, quoted speech, or intercut media (news reports, memos, texts). Distinct formatting or indentation separates voices.
- Concluding Certification Always ends with some mark of finalization: “End of Statement,” “Filed by…,” “Signed…,” “Date…,” etc. This closure functions like a gavel strike— both official and haunting.
- Tone & Genre Flexibility Can serve any theme: horror, memoir, satire, political, romantic, existential. The form’s neutrality invites every poet to explore revelation through record-keeping.
- Optional Accompaniments
- May include a brief Poet’s Note describing inspiration or “case background.”
- Visual spacing and typographic rhythm are part of the form’s aesthetic; poets are encouraged to experiment.
Typical Structure (suggested, not mandatory)
- Header — Title + document type (“Statement of …”, “Case File …”).
- Body — Primary narrative in document voice (can alternate speakers).
- Insertions — Media fragments, side notes, official interjections.
- Closure — Formal sign-off (signature/date or bureaucratic stamp).
- Optional Poet’s Note — Context or reflection after the “file” is sealed.
Purpose
To turn the language of procedure into poetry, revealing how systems, testimonies, and self-records carry hidden emotion and truth.
Where the affidavit becomes art, the discovery is human.
Examples
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Tittu
Tristan Robert Lange 