Writing and Technology
This is important, especially if you’re an aspiring author. The word processor is the most wonderful thing to happen to a writer. But for all its gifts, one simple little program like Solitaire undoes all the advantages. Add instant messaging, streaming video, hot and cold running Internet journals, a flood of forwarded email jokes…
You get the idea.
The computer is a Pandora’s Box of distractions. For some reason, many writers are susceptible to these (myself included). Really, any aspiring authors out there who want to do yourselves a favor, go buy a $20 surplus OEM Palm IIIxe and a $15 Palm Portable Keyboard (both readily available on eBay), and a nice little Palm word processor like WordSmith, and just go to town. Write your heart out. Because, not only is it highly portable, it doesn’t have Internet access. And it doesn’t have any games that you don’t put on it — don’t put any on it! — so you can’t really do anything with it but write, make lists, and keep track of appointments. Plus, it’s so small you can take it with you, and you’ll always have it when inspiration strikes.
Of course, you can say the same thing about a wire-bound 70 page college ruled notebook. And I say, “Whatever works!” Just keep writing.
