Abstract: Methods and compositions for use in optically recording information. The present invention includes incorporating solute molecules within an extremely viscous medium. The solute molecules may be chemically bound within the medium or they may be held physically in place. In either case actual rotation of the solute molecules is prevented. The solute molecules are chosen such that they are capable of generalized pseudorotation. That is, the solute molecules or chromophores attached to a polymer chain may be converted from a first form to a second form which differs in orientation without a net chemical transformation into another chemical species and in the absence of actual rotation. In addition, the various forms of the solute molecules can be produced by passing selectively polarized light through the medium. The form of the solute molecules can then be "read" by passing light through the medium and detecting its characteristics as it exits the medium.