Maurice Sendak: 'I hate those e-books. They can not be the future... they may well be... I will be dead.'

I hate those e-books. They can not be the future... they may well be... I will be dead.

In a straightforward sense, the quote by Maurice Sendak, "I hate those e-books. They can not be the future... they may well be... I will be dead," expresses his disdain for electronic-books and his skepticism regarding their potential as the future medium for reading. Sendak, a renowned author and illustrator, known for his iconic children's book "Where the Wild Things Are," presents his apprehension by acknowledging that although e-books may indeed become prevalent, his own lack of enthusiasm stems from his personal reluctance to embrace this technological shift. However, beyond the surface meaning of the quote lies an unexpected philosophical concept worth exploring: the interplay between personal biases, societal progress, and the acceptance of change.It is only natural for individuals to form opinions and preferences based on their experiences, values, and personal inclinations. Sendak's aversion to e-books is a manifestation of his attachment to traditional print books, their tangible nature, and the joy they brought him throughout his lifetime. He adores the physicality of books, the smell of the pages, and the weight of a story in his hands. This emotional connection to the traditional reading experience colors his perspective, leading to a bias against e-books as an alternative medium.However, as Sendak himself acknowledges, the inevitability of change casts doubts on any firm predictions. The progression of technology continuously disrupts established norms and perceptions of what is possible. While Sendak may not look forward to a future dominated by e-books, he acknowledges that his personal reservations and preferences hold little influence over the pace of societal progress. He alludes to his own mortality with the phrase, "I will be dead," effectively underscoring the transient nature of individual opinions in contrast to the relentless march of time and advancement.This juxtaposition between personal biases and societal progress raises profound questions about the nature of change and our ability to adapt. Are individual preferences more relevant than collective developments? Can personal biases hinder genuine progress? The tension between embracing new technologies and preserving cherished traditions is not unique to the debate on e-books; it permeates various aspects of society. From cultural practices to scientific advancements, striking a balance between respecting the past and embracing the future is a perpetual challenge for humanity.One could argue that Sendak's resistance to e-books encapsulates a broader fear of losing the connection to the past. In a rapidly evolving world, one often finds solace in elements that evoke nostalgia; familiar relics provide stability amidst the uncertainty of progress. Yet, it is important to recognize that progress does not equate to erasure. The rise of e-books does not imply the end of print books; rather, it showcases the coexistence of different mediums. Rather than an either-or situation, it becomes an opportunity to expand the avenues through which people can engage with literature.In conclusion, Maurice Sendak's quote serves as a testament to the complex relationship between personal biases, societal progress, and the acceptance of change. It highlights the divergence between an individual's preferences that are shaped by emotions and experiences and the inevitability of technological advancement that permeates society. By acknowledging his own hesitations while contemplating the future, Sendak's words prompt us to reflect on our own biases and consider how they may limit our ability to embrace progress. Ultimately, the coexistence of tradition and innovation enhances our experiences and expands our horizons, offering a richer tapestry of options for readers and ensuring the preservation of literary enjoyment for generations to come.