this post was submitted on 05 Jul 2023
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It was necessary with typewriters.
Then the earliest word processing programs didn’t do layout well, so the habit made the leap to computers.
Then years later it’s seen as an old person’s habit by people who’ve only ever known systems with smart text layout.
One of the best conversations I ever had was when I had taken psilocybin mushrooms and was wandering around downtown and found my way to the local typewriter museum.
I was stoned out of my gourd, but wildly, I don't think that was evident to the historian, because he eagerly answered all my questions and showed me all manner of typewriters and early word processors.
It was wonderful. We truly do stand on the shoulders of giants, all of humanity stands on the knowledge of those who came before. The history of technology is amazing.
Or he knew and just loved getting the chance to talk to someone who was currently enraptured by facts about his passion.
He knew, he just didn't care, because...typewriters!
I'm a historian and I would gladly talk at length to anyone about my particular fascination of the moment, no matter what they took or how high they are. I think I would even enjoy it more if a person was on psychedelics because they are way more open-minded and curious than sober people.
Well before typewriters the space left after a period could be huge like 5-20 spaces (hand written or in printed books) even though we don't have typewriters dictating it it does help readibilty.