Kindle’s clogging up the blogosphere and the airwaves right now. As I wrote, and N and Cathy commented, the other day it’s probably a crummy idea. But some people have been making some good points so I thought it would be good to point out the other side – and to give my take on why I don’t buy it.
- They said the same thing about digital music, that people wouldn’t want to listen to music electronically or store their files, that the
album,8 track,tape, cd would never succumb to the mp3. Difference is people like to announce the books their reading to the world. Reading Harry Potter is a badge of honour. Reading Owen Meany is inviting me to comment, “what a great book, love that story”. Also reading a book is – usually – a one off affair. You read, you put it on the book shelf or you pass it on. Where as a CD is a repeat experience. I know some people read the same book many times, but it’s far less likely to happen then listening to the same album. Also, the medium for music was crying for innovation, hence we went from the album to the 8 track to the tape to the cd. - Being able to carry a number of different titles on the go is better then having to lug all your books with you. I think this is a pretty good argument. But, I can’t remember the last time I thought to myself wish I had another book right this instant. If I finish a book, I like to discuss it with someone, or try and think about it a bit. I don’t feel this pain, but I’d welcome hearing from people who do.
- Its better environmentally. This one I can give you. But if the kindle comes out with a number of different models, and people dump their old kindles I think the environmental factors might be a wash.
I still don’t like it. Still can’t see it growing the ebook market. And I still can’t see anyone spending $400 to pick up an ebook reader.
