The internet has undeniably revolutionized human communication. While some lament the rise of abbreviated language online, viewing it as a decline in literacy with shortened phrases like “ur” and “u,” history reveals this isn’t a novel phenomenon. Consider the term “OK,” originating from the upper class shortening “all correct”—a linguistic shortcut now universally accepted without a second thought.
Kevin Malone from The Office explaining his philosophy: 'Why waste time say lot word when few word do trick.' This quote highlights the concept of concise communication, relevant to online language and internet slang.
This evolution echoes a humorous observation from the TV show The Office. Character Kevin Malone succinctly captures the essence of efficient communication, proclaiming, “Why waste time say lot word when few word do trick.” While exaggerated for comedic effect, Kevin’s point resonates deeply with online communication habits. In the fast-paced digital realm, especially in text-based interactions, brevity often reigns supreme. Why labor over lengthy sentences when a concise phrase or abbreviation can convey the same message effectively?
Stephen King’s novella UR offers an early glimpse into the portability of long-form reading material. Before e-readers, digital books were confined to desktop computers or laptops. However, devices like the Kindle ushered in an era where vast libraries could be carried in a single, compact device. Despite this technological advancement, UR itself, ironically, served primarily as an advertisement for the Kindle, and arguably lacked depth as a story. The book’s promotional nature is somewhat paradoxical, as one would need a Kindle to read a book extolling the virtues of the Kindle in the first place.
Massively Open Online Courses (MOOCs) illustrate some of the growing pains associated with the internet, specifically in online education. The initial reaction to technical difficulties – “Why waste time say lot word when few word do trick” – reflects a sense of urgency and perhaps frustration when technology falters. Anyone familiar with platforms like Moodle can attest to the occasional, and often inconvenient, server outages. Technology, despite its advancements, is not infallible. This inherent unreliability underscores the importance of not solely depending on the internet for all tasks. While it is an invaluable tool, possessing offline skills, such as traditional writing, remains crucial for situations where digital access is limited or unavailable.
