Thoughts on a Typewriter

Thoughts on a Typewriter focuses on the author's reflections on analog versus digital technologies, the impact of technology on daily life, nostalgia for traditional tools, and personal observations on how these technologies shape human experiences. The newsletter emphasizes the value of simplicity, sensory experiences, and critical thinking about technological advancement.

Analog vs. Digital Technologies Impact of Technology on Society Nostalgia and Appreciation for Traditional Tools Human Sensory Experiences and Preferences Reflections on Technological Advancement Personal Observations and Experiences

The hottest Substack posts of Thoughts on a Typewriter

And their main takeaways

Thoughts on a Typewriter

196 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
  1. Typewriters are inherently impractical in the 21st century due to noise, mechanical issues, errors, and weight.
  2. Using a typewriter offers a unique writing experience with its physical and slow nature, demanding concentration and stamina.
  3. Analog tools like typewriters can provide value by offering a challenge and a different writing experience in a world of ubiquitous digital ease.

Oldie But a Goodie

137 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Books Nostalgia Digital Vintage
  1. Quality things are timeless and can be enjoyed by different generations
  2. It's great when kids appreciate and enjoy the same things their parents used to love
  3. Old stuff that is good quality remains desirable and enjoyable, whether analog or digital
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My Laptop Has No Smell

117 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Technology Books Senses
  1. Digital devices like laptops have no smell, unlike traditional items like typewriters.
  2. Despite the convenience of ebooks, many people still prefer physical books due to the sensory experience they offer, such as smell, feel, and sight.
  3. Humans are drawn to sensory experiences like smell, and it influences our behaviors and preferences.

What if We're Going the Wrong Way?

117 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Automation Tech industry
  1. Uber drivers going the wrong way due to GPS errors is a common and frustrating issue
  2. Reflects on the implications of technology reliance and automation in our future
  3. Raises questions about the need to address basic problems before advancing technology

Smart Solutions to Dumb Locks

98 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🕹 Technology
  1. Smart locks can be inconvenient and annoying to use because they rely on smartphone apps and sometimes fail in crucial moments.
  2. Sometimes, traditional tools like a crowbar are necessary solutions when high-tech systems like smart locks fail.
  3. The story highlights the importance of having backup plans and being prepared for unexpected situations, even with advanced technology.

The Joy of Fixing Shit

78 implied HN points • 03 May 23
  1. Fixing things can be a satisfying hobby for many people.
  2. The internet is a valuable resource for learning how to fix items.
  3. Analog goods are often fixable and provide a sense of accomplishment.

My Kingdom for a Menu

78 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
  1. QR Code menus can be inconvenient for diners due to small font, bad navigation, and connectivity issues.
  2. QR Code menus were adopted during the pandemic out of caution but may not enhance the dining experience.
  3. Printed menus can be preferred over QR Code menus for a more engaging dining experience.

Quick Ask Zoe

58 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing Creativity Career Productivity
  1. The author attributes their ability to write quickly to their fast typing speed of 60-70 words per minute.
  2. The author reflects on how learning to type in school significantly impacted their writing productivity and speed.
  3. The author recognizes the importance of slowing down in writing to enhance creativity, inspired by their English teacher's advice.

Rise of the Sexy Killer Robot Pictures

39 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🕹 Technology AI Art Creativity
  1. AI is becoming more prominent with the rise of competent chatbots and artists.
  2. Stock images of AI often depict sexy robots, despite AI being non-visual.
  3. There is a lack of creativity in portraying AI beyond the stereotype of sexy robot images.

Et Tu LEGO?

39 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Digitalization Gaming Sustainability
  1. LEGO is transitioning from paper manuals to digital apps for instructions for sustainability reasons.
  2. The digital shift in LEGO instructions can detract from the immersive and unplugged experience of playing with LEGO bricks.
  3. Some LEGO sets, like Super Mario, now require downloading an app for building instructions instead of paper manuals.

Coming soon

0 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
  1. A new post is coming soon on Jan 30, 2023
  2. Follow David Sax on Substack for more content
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