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| source: Good News Pic |
On September 1, 2010 Paste Magazine announced that it would be suspending its print publication. Indie music lovers should not be too disheartened, though--they will continue their website and twitter feed.
However, this is just yet another blow to the world of print and its saddening decrease in popularity. I turned to Paste magazine for its quality articles, having lost interest in the more popular Rolling Stone which (despite recent great pieces like the one on the oil spill and General McChrystal) has become the People magazine of music magazines, filled with gossip and Top 40 news that I personally don't really care about.
Of course there is something to be said for the e-readers that are coming out (Kindle, iPad, etc.). They're travel-size, fit multiple books in one little gadget, etc etc. I understand the practicality, and I appreciate it.
But there's nothing like the smell of a book. Of holding it in your hands, of literally turning its pages, hearing the paper crinkle gently. Nothing can replace re-discovery a much beloved book, seeing where you dog-earred the pages and the wear and tear of multiple reads. Even magazines . . . the ability to tear out pages for pictures and clippings of your favorite articles, actors, musicians to paper your adolescent room. Or your closet if, like me, your parents wouldn't let you tape things on your walls.
I'm not a Luddite. I'm not saying we have to avoid this new technology. If you travel frequently, have a long commute on public transportation, or are at school and don't want to carry a million heavy books (the plight of the English major) then go for it! But please, please, please don't stop buying books and magazines. It's an industry that should NOT be failing.
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