The other day, acclaimed author, William Fiennes, lectured to my English class about his experience as a writer and composing his most recent work, "The Music Room". Similarly, I attend a writing seminar with Fiennes every Tuesday night. Finnes always prefers we hand write all of our pieces (up to the final draft). For a while, I was confused as to why this was necessary, however his most recent discussion regarding his novel has shed some light on the topic. Fiennes even spoke of one author that wrote out his entire novel on post it notes, stuck to a wall. Because hand writing is a significantly longer process (for most people) than typing, it causes the writer to take time and thoughtfully consider what they are writing, whereas on the computer, one can mindlessly ramble with ease. I have recognized my prices that are hand written, have been held to a much higher standard than my typed pieces. Technology has sped up many functions for the better, but perhaps in regards to writing, taking more time out wouldn't be so bad. Similarly, since we as people learned to write before type, writing is a thought process that is innate to us, in a way that typing can't be. Also with typing, the ability to move bits around cant actually be detrimental. When you hand write, moving bits must be considered since it is such a hassle, so they must truly improving the piece. On the computer, one also has a bevy of distractions to deter the person from focusing on their writing. i have also noticed that people that type tend to look up words on online thesauruses to beef up their pieces, often causing awkward word choice and weakening the piece. In regards to publishing, it is easier to publish a book or piece than ever before, meaning the standard for a piece is now, unfortunately, lower. Overall, I think technology has kept literature from reaching a higher standard.
