The Analogue Comeback
Ever since the introduction of the personal computer into our homes during the 80s, digitization has become more and more integrated into our daily lives: telephone booths, alarm clocks, wristwatches and calendars have been replaced by smartphones; vcrs, tape recorders and turntables have made way for streaming services; typewriters...
The meaning of media has been ever-changing for thousands of years. Even with new kinds of media being added, the ones that have been established almost always stay with us. So, new media are given dominance because of their practicality, while old media are appreciated for their beauty. However, it is not a matter of choosing between either of them. After all, perceiving contrast is how we recognize the world around us: music sounds light because heavy tones exist; we see brightness after knowing the darkness; the warmth from a cup of tea feels more intense when it is cold outside. Similarly, the digital and analog worlds coexist. Part of seeing contrast is the existence of the “other side”, and by understanding the complementary conditions of both sides, we can see more clearly and be more conscious about our choices. This is why the leading role of digital media is changing our perception of analog media.
An employee of a writing implements’ manufacturer once theorized that the invention of the PC has actually been a savior for the fountain pen! Our aesthetic needs cannot be fulfilled by digital equivalents. Although they are prac-tical, they rarely are beautiful. And as fascinating and fun as they are, they lack a certain warmth and depth. The digital era has brought many benefits but also has its shortcomings.