It may not be the most technologically advanced tool, but
it's available to me anywhere I go. And until a few years ago, at least,
it was a tool that I knew how to use well. I don't go anywhere without
a pen and some paper in my pockets. It's simple, compact, and accesible
without any special adapters, converters or plugs. But such a simple technology
also has certain drawbacks. A laptop requires both setting up and warming
up, which may at first seem to be drawbacks rather than advantages. But
if you're going to do any
serious writing while on the road a laptop
helps create the proper conditions. Having a pen and paper in my pocket
and in reach may be the ultimate in availability, but availability can
sometimes lead to disregard: It's there, but it's hardly worth relating
to. Too often I make a note of an idea in my head and tell myself to write
it down, but don't get organized enough to do so - either despite the fact
that pen and paper were readily available, or perhaps because they were
so available. On the other hand, if I have to sit myself down in front
of a computer - turn it on, open the necessary programs, follow certain
protocols - I'm also putting myself into the proper mood for writing. It's
no longer "on the fly" note taking, but instead focused writing, and I
stand a better chance of getting some real, substantial, writing done.
That is if I can get around to sitting down at all.
Of course each tool has certain advantages, depending on the terrain
and firepower, but since nobody is about to donate me a laptop at the moment,
I suppose that it's not really worth devoting much thought to the matter.
Pen and paper will have to make do.