Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Technology changes how we write. Who was the first Goody Two Shoes?
Jan 16, 2024
Guest Matthew G. Kirschenbaum discusses how technology shapes writing styles, from Nietzsche's writing ball to modern word processors. The origin of 'Goody Two Shoes' is explored, revealing its positive beginnings. The podcast delves into how technology impacts literary style and the evolution of language meanings.
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Writing Instruments Shape Thought
- Writing instruments influence our thoughts, as Nietzsche observed.
- They shape what we say and how we think, impacting the form and content of our writing.
The Complexity of Style
- The question of how computers change literary style is complex and perhaps misplaced.
- Style is influenced by many factors, not just the writing tool.
Authors Adapt to Technology
- John Updike dismissed his secretary after getting a word processor.
- Primo Levi described his computer as a "memory prosthesis" and more than just a typewriter.