Connectivity, Reading/Writing, and the Cyber Age :: Technology Technological Essays

Connectivity, Reading/Writing, and the Cyber AgeI own a cell phone. And a desktop computer. And I carry this old laptop around to all the coffee shops and bars in whose noise I try to drown place the mean little voices of writerly anxiety so I can just get my fucking homework done. At work I use a touch screen ordering system to get my drinks from the bar and artichoke dip from the kitchen. I check my horoscope online (as well as those of the men Im interested inblushing with shameJ,) stay in touch with friends via email, and use my colleges online services to register for classes. I do a great mountain of my research for class via the electronic databases Eastern Michigan maintains, I have a blog, Ive tried to get my poetry published at online literary magazines. With the help of a very patient friend, I even filed my federal taxes online this year. The internet and wireless technology make my life easier to move through quickly. I am grateful. But somewhat ashamed. In the same wa y that I feel guilty every time I drive the old pollution-mobile a mile and a half to work, using all this high-speed information technology feels like being seduced away from my principles by the lure of ease. I study in slowness. I love speed. Its a difficulty. I am not the only person struggling with the conflict between the speed late life demands and that at which actual life happens. Womens magazines are full of tips on organizing the kitchen, the carpool, the craft supplies, so that more time can be represent for the important things in lifehanging out with the kids, spending time with parents, maybe even having sex with partners. Advertising companies pitch scads of products as time-savers, from meals-in-a-bag to blocks of cleansing agent that clean the toilet with every flush. All my friends complain about not having enough time to get everything done. My girlfriend who is working on her PHD and Masters degrees at the same time doesnt have enough time to see her lover a nd spend time with her m new(prenominal) in the nursing home. My other dear girlfriend with two fabulous kids, a husband thats out of this world, a house, two cars, and two jobs doesnt have enough time for anything. around of my men friends dont have enough time to work their jobs, take care of their bodies, support their ladyfriends in whatever way and still hump what theyre feeling from moment to moment.