Journal #1

When it comes to defining writing, various definitions can be brought up. In my opinion, your definition of writing depends on your perspective and experience, which differs from every human. In this case, I would define writing as a technologically reproduced representation of language. It's purpose ranges from the basics of communication to an art form. This definition, derived from my HOTT class, strongly describes writing and everything it encompasses. Below I will provide key terms that will help you understand my stance on what is writing. 

1.    Language: Our language and culture affects the way we write. Although writing and language is not synonymous, they do influence each other to form our dialect, which can be distinctive to others. A good example of this would be the history of our alphabet system. It was first considered the language of the Egyptians, which were called hieroglyphics. It eventually evolved into what we know it as today and helps us represent our language in writing. 

2.    Communication: Writing can solicit a response, which leads to communication. Communication happens in many different forms, but when the recipient is not physically present, writing is always the next answer. Whether through a letter, email, tweet, or DM, writing is accessible to give you a direct link to communicating.

3.    Memory: As we are all aware, it is proven that writing provides a way for us to retain information effectively. Memory is an important key term because writing leads to our ability to analyze effectively and connect dots that weren't previously seen. 

4.    Tangibility: With writing, there is a choice of tangibility. Relating to memory, recalling can be much easier if its right in front of you. The many different forms writing can come upon is based on your usage and how you can benefit from that particular medium. Writing is a tool that works with you and your needs.

5.    Development, growth: Writing makes analytical thoughts possible. Writing also restructures our thought, which grows through time and as the world changes. We can look at things differently. In other words, writing created our cultures and who we are today. Writing shapes our terministic screens and how we grow into adults. 

Overall, the invention of written language replaced the oral tradition and allowed for us to not only store, but also share information.