Aesthetics of Digital Literature - Is It The End Of The Book?

With technology constantly developing, questions are being raised to whether it is time to say R.I.P to the book. You can practically find anything and everything on the Internet nowadays. Although the book has been around for a number of years, new technologies have been introduced and may just one day completely replace the book.

Computer literature, such as, the Kindle, Ipad, Sony Reader and e-books have practically become the new book. Enabling us to find and read publications online instead of visiting the local library. We are now also able to read our books on the run because of the Kindle.

According to this Telegraph Article Amazon has released figures showing that for the first time, e-books have outsold paperbacks in the United States.

Yes, e-books may save time and money however, these new technologies do have their disadvantages. E-books are actually inconvenient to read. Annie Proulx said: "Nobody is going to sit down and read a novel on a twitchy little screen ever." Surely, I can talk for the majority of people when I say I wouldn't want to sit in front of a computer reading an e-book, plus it puts a strain on your eyes, Whereas, paper books are more convenient, you're able to read in in the bath, on the bus, on your sofa, almost anywhere! Also, e-books may be copied and distributed without the permission of the publisher, which is another downside. Another disadvantage is the fact that e-book devices are rather expensive and in fact more costly than printed books.

In my opinion I think I prefer e-books. BUT a few years ago I would of said I prefer paper books. When I was younger I was an avid book reader, I absolutely loved reading books....until my mum brought me a computer. I realised as soon as I had this computer, things changed. I was constantly on the Internet and all of  a sudden forgot about my love for books. I think the reason I prefer e-books is because of its accessibility, I find it very useful when it comes to doing my work, reason being, text can be searched automatically and will take me to the relevant page in the e-book..It also saves me from taking out a book in the library.
But I guess everyone is used to books because me know how to use them. Whereas, on the other hand, not everyone is familiar with technological devices let alone some people do no even own a computer.

So maybe it isn't the end of the book. With technology constantly changing and bringing out new systems and devices, you never know, e-books might eventually be outdated.