In an interesting article on the fate of the book, Robert McCrum writes in The Guardian that "reading a book on a screen is like enjoying wine intravenously." He goes on with actual optimism, leaving those who love actual books some hope.
Look, I was the same way as you were. I didn't see the point. But I got converted! I love how I can digitally borrow a book from a friend who lives in Florida. Also, I like how I can change the text to where I can read the words easier. I like how if I get the urge to read any specific book at any given point, I can be instantly gratified by purchasing it (or getting it free!) through my device. Just because I have a Kindle doesn't mean I don't still love to go book shopping at Goodwill. In fact, I just bought 5 for a dollar, and I can't wait to read them. I can appreciate both types. Sorry if I am blaspheming here, lol.
I think that quote you found is the greatest! That is exactly how I feel about ereaders. Great books are totally like great bottles of aged wine. I love actually turning the pages, feeling the cover and spine, enjoying the journey, and of course placing the bookmark inside and checking how much progress I've made (much like realizing how much of the bottle I've consumed). Then placing it on the bookshelf like some sort of trophy... Down with ereaders! I'd rather have a fabulous bookshelf full of books than an electronic device that I am sure would let me down in more ways than one. Books don't break!
Nothing compares to boks, but I think that ereaders can be extremely useful in certain situations.. like when traveling. With limited packing space, sometimes an e-reader can help.. rather then bringing 3-5 books on a vacation ... you can have one slim piece of technology and access to limitless books.
Ahaha - I actually really like that analogy. I agree - there's really no replacement for a good old book :)
ReplyDeleteLook, I was the same way as you were. I didn't see the point. But I got converted! I love how I can digitally borrow a book from a friend who lives in Florida. Also, I like how I can change the text to where I can read the words easier. I like how if I get the urge to read any specific book at any given point, I can be instantly gratified by purchasing it (or getting it free!) through my device. Just because I have a Kindle doesn't mean I don't still love to go book shopping at Goodwill. In fact, I just bought 5 for a dollar, and I can't wait to read them. I can appreciate both types. Sorry if I am blaspheming here, lol.
ReplyDeleteI think that quote you found is the greatest! That is exactly how I feel about ereaders. Great books are totally like great bottles of aged wine. I love actually turning the pages, feeling the cover and spine, enjoying the journey, and of course placing the bookmark inside and checking how much progress I've made (much like realizing how much of the bottle I've consumed). Then placing it on the bookshelf like some sort of trophy... Down with ereaders! I'd rather have a fabulous bookshelf full of books than an electronic device that I am sure would let me down in more ways than one. Books don't break!
ReplyDeleteNothing compares to boks, but I think that ereaders can be extremely useful in certain situations.. like when traveling. With limited packing space, sometimes an e-reader can help.. rather then bringing 3-5 books on a vacation ... you can have one slim piece of technology and access to limitless books.
ReplyDelete