Random thoughts concerning IM and Text Messages

Until about five minutes ago I was under the impression that Texting and Instant Messaging were of the same nature.

Now I realise very clearly why they are not and it is inherent not in WHAT a text or an IM is but WHY we use them and which direction they point on a spectrum between the print and oral cultures.

Instant messaging is a step away from the literate tradition. It is instant, it is conversational, and even though there is a physical distance between two parties, they are much closer mentally than someone sending a letter, writing a book, or even an Email. Yes, the fact is that these conversations can be save and made permanent and that may cause one to consider it ultimately part of the print culture, but I maintain that it is indeed closer to that of an oral culture.

Text Messaging as done via cell phone is however part of the print culture. I don't really like texting much. I avoided it as long as I could because I find it inconvenient, I find it impersonal, and most importantly because I don't want Carpal Tunnel. It is the second reason, however, that causes me to think it is part of the print culture. It is impersonal, it is distant, and unlike the instant message which was created to close the gap between literate people, text messages do exactly the opposite. Their selling point is that one no longer has to engage in verbal contact to convey simple messages that they would otherwise not bother writing down. They also create a time lag. The texts will be just as relevant in five minutes as they were when they were sent, and so long as we don't need to vocalize our thoughts we are content to wait on the reply.

I have a friend that doesn't use her phone. You can call her, but she will not pick up. Right after you will recieve a text message asking what it is you want. I love this friend of mine, but I hate that she does this.