It is not necessary to describe the inherent limits of technology — its potential to dehumanize and disconnect us from one another. And others probably have already spoken about the fact that the most ingenious technologies are those that call the very least attention to their presence. This is not the place or time for such diatribes and depositions. Instead, it's a quick intro to a very clever site I came across. If you have five minutes of interrupted time to spare, then open your Chrome browser and experience The Wilderness Downtown.
Since I have nothing pressing to accomplish today, I played on this site for quite some time. Here are some suggestions for you to consider:
- You will be prompted to enter your childhood home address. I tried but it was a too obscure address. There is an artistic reason for providing that info. But if you receive this message then I would recommend entering a different address (your current residence) and imagine that is the place where you grew up: Your address doesn't contain enough Street-View and/or Google Maps data to 100% enjoy this experience
- Don't click on windows. During the presentation, a bunch will pop up and cascade over each other. Let them be. The artists know better than you. Don't screw it up.
- Lastly, DO engage in typing and doodling when prompted on the "postcard" page. Especially doodle. I became lost in throwing ink around the screen. And doing so gives others a place to roost.
Make your own interpretations of the message. Reject it or use it to re-direct you life's purpose. Me: I'm just amazed that I became part of the story.
