As we see technology changing the very face of society there can be no doubt that some of the changes are about as welcome as an outbreak of diphtheria. There is a tremendous backlash to the increasing popularity of texting. Much of the backlash comes from those who are concerned about the effect texting is having on the written word, while others are concerned about the social aspect of texting, feeling it and other of the newer communications tools (instant messaging, social networking, blogging) are somehow diminished forms of communication.
Let’s deal with these two concerns; first up, how can the structure and beauty of our written word survive in the shorthand, contracted world of SMS?
When we send text messages, grammar, spelling and composition go out the window in favour of brevity. We shorten everything possible: “see you later” becomes “C U l8r”. I can hear the question being asked now: this is a good thing?