Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Disconnect, unwire, going retro

For the past few years, we have all gotten used to the privacy and "shyness protection" of internet communications, such as instant messaging (IM) and e-mail. In the digitization process, Some form of the human feel is lost. Normally, we meet and talk, during which, the expression of ideas were transmitted through not only the language/word use, but also facial expressions, vocal tones and body language. Then came postal mail. Facial expressions, vocal tones and body language were all lost, yet other factors come in, such as the style of hand writing and choice of stationary, and most of all, having the mail man send your feelings to someone feels kind of romantic. And there's also telephone, in which the vocal tones were preserved. Yet, with the internet, utilizing IM and e-mail, the text is the only main form of communication. Sure, you could add all kinds of flashy graphics, yet they all seem so artificial and out of touch.

I am starting to like postal mail, always feels special to seal up your feelings in an envelope and throw it into the mail box. Also, I've heard that in requesting interviews for grad school applications, calling by phone gives you a bigger chance of success then sending e-mails. Maybe I should go retro :)

No comments: