Scrolls have a storied history that stretches back to ancient Egypt, where they were originally crafted from papyrus. As a medium, scrolls have transcended time and geography, serving as the earliest form of portable, editable media. Over centuries, they evolved, taking various forms, including silk or parchment bindings. The transition from physical to digital scrolls marks a fascinating journey through history.
In the realm of traditional Chinese art, scrolls have played a significant role. Two primary types of scrolls emerged: the hanging scroll and the handscroll. The Chinese handscroll, in particular, served as a unique form of social media long before the digital age. Designed to be unrolled slowly, it revealed one section at a time, engaging viewers in an immersive experience. This gradual revelation mirrored the way information was shared and consumed within communities.
The Roman codex eventually began to supplant the scroll in Europe, marking a shift in media consumption. However, Asia maintained its affinity for scrolls in both art and literature for centuries. Even today, fine artists continue to employ scrolls as a medium, preserving their cultural significance.
The advent of the infinite scroll transformed digital experiences dramatically. Supposedly invented in 2006 by designer Aza Raskin, this innovation changed the way people interacted with content on screens. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram further revolutionized scrolling with algorithmic feeds. Instead of strictly chronological updates, users were served content tailored to their preferences and behaviors.
The verb "scroll" made its debut as early as 1971 in a computer guidebook. Users could navigate through lines of data using keyboard commands on the first computer terminals of the 1960s. This multidimensional "frontier" allowed users to traverse data in any direction they pleased, echoing the names of browsers like Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer.
One compelling aspect of scrolls lies in their ability to challenge viewers' perceptions. The impossibility of seeing an entire painting in one glance forces audiences to confront the limitations of their understanding. This concept resonates in Chinese handscrolls, which often explore themes of life, death, and rebirth through Buddhist and Taoist philosophies.
“this is not a love letter. The following is a hellish scroll.” – Tiffany Sia
Tiffany Sia, an artist and filmmaker, frequently draws connections between classical handscrolls and digital doomscrolling. Her work reflects on political repression and resistance in her homeland of Hong Kong. Sia's perspective highlights how traditional mediums can intersect with modern digital experiences.
Decentralized and community-owned platforms offer a promising path forward for digital media. These alternatives channel some of the spirit of the handscroll, emphasizing shared experiences and collective ownership. As major services like Twitter face potential challenges, these platforms present viable options for users seeking something beyond the algorithm-driven landscape.
“Out: doomscrolling. In: getting fruit juice on your hands.” – Other Internet
The metaphorical shift from doomscrolling to tangible experiences underscores a broader societal desire for more meaningful interactions. As digital and physical worlds continue to intertwine, the evolution of the scroll serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of historical mediums on contemporary culture.
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