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It's not that I think that computers don't have their…

“It's not that I think that computers don't have their place, but surely their place is not in bed, which is my favorite place to read, and surely their place is not snuggled up with a cat in your lap in an old armchair. You can't have your laptop computer and your cat in your lap simultaneously…” quote by Anne Fadiman
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““It's not that I think that computers don't have their place, but surely their place is not in bed, which is my favorite place to read, and surely their place is not snuggled up with a cat in your lap in an old armchair. You can't have your laptop computer and your cat in your lap simultaneously, while trying to manage a cup of tea, which you might spill on your computer. On the other hand, if you spilled your cup of tea on your book -- well, Charles Lamb would probably just like it better. He once said that he particularly liked books that had old muffin crumbs in them. Muffin crumbs in your computer would not be a good idea.””

Anne Fadiman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Computers belong in functional settings, not cozy, messy ones; distractions reduce productivity.

In simple terms: Keep tech away from cozy distractions.

Key Takeaway

Design workspaces for focus.

Themes

technology productivity environment distraction

Mood

reflective humorous

Type

essay observational

When to use this quote

  • home office
  • reading nook
  • coffee breaks
  • pet owners

Key Concepts

human factors work ergonomics digital habits

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a balance be struck between comfort and efficiency?
  • Do pets improve or hinder work?
A Different Perspective

Some may find comfort in mixed settings; flexibility can aid creativity.

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