ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Joseph Mouton's 'Delenda ouest' Explores Algorithmic Neurosis and Narrative Machines

publication · 2026-04-23

Éditions des petits matins has published Joseph Mouton's 'Delenda ouest', a multi-layered work that intertwines a protagonist's struggle with algorithmic neurosis—a condition where every gesture must be perfectly executed—with the construction of a universal narrative machine called SCÉNARIO GÉNÉRAL. The book introduces Joseph W. Shepherd's literary expertise firm, whose employees analyze the evolving story into a film script. Among them is John Petraca, nicknamed 'the last arranger', a genius at twisting storyboards with tight loops, much appreciated by producers at Mouton-Goldwyn-Mayer. The narrative also incorporates the theory of 'charge and iteration' aimed at measuring the entropic weight of actions and symbols in a story. Eric Mangion reviews the work, noting the comedic potential of neurosis.

Key facts

  • Joseph Mouton is the author of 'Delenda ouest'.
  • The book is published by Éditions des petits matins.
  • The protagonist suffers from algorithmic neurosis.
  • The narrative includes a machine called SCÉNARIO GÉNÉRAL.
  • Joseph W. Shepherd runs a literary expertise firm.
  • John Petraca, known as 'the last arranger', works for Shepherd.
  • Mouton-Goldwyn-Mayer producers appreciate Petraca's skills.
  • The theory of 'charge and iteration' is central to the work.

Entities

Artists

  • Joseph Mouton
  • John Petraca
  • Joseph W. Shepherd
  • Eric Mangion

Institutions

  • Éditions des petits matins
  • Mouton-Goldwyn-Mayer

Sources