The ever-increasing popularity of e-mail had become so commonplace that the written word has almost been completely replaced as the dominant form of communication. In past times, exchange of written communication was the novelty of the day. Through history the possession of a written language was considered a trait to determine whether a new civilization was civilized or not. In ancient times, to be a scribe was to be a very important and elevated person. Many were used in the service of the king, because only they understood the written word of the day. Man has always been in search of ways to improve or quicken every aspect of his life, regardless of how simple it may already be. In this endless search, man has created the instantaneous e-mail. In times past, a person would feel important or loved when they received a letter in the mail. But today one can e-mail as many friends and family as he/she desires with just the click of a button. It means almost nothing now to hear the words, “You have mail.”

But on the other hand, e-mail has many positive aspects that should be considered as well. People can now relay information to one another faster than ever before. This has helped man significantly. Before, it could take days or even weeks for a letter or an important document to reach its destination. But this has been sped up to just the click of a mouse. This has proven very beneficial to individuals, businesses, and even governments. Remember, such slow communication kept much of the known world in what we call the “Dark Ages” for many years. Innocent lives have even been lost, because word could not reach the opposing generals in time that the war was over.

D.W. Mullins Jr. has a very valid point. Concern should be given to the world’s dependency upon the relatively new phenomenon called e-mail. All forms of written communication definitely should not become in the slightest bit trivial or obsolete. It should continue to be the mainstay of our everyday way of life. But e-mail should be respected for its positive aspects as well. It should not be debased solely out of concern for lack of usage of our written language. It has helped further man’s advancement in the world and will continue to do so in the future.

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