Answering machines Quote by Dave Barry
“I am absolutely sick unto death of hearing people say - they all say this; it must be Item One on the curriculum in Trend College - "I just hate to talk to a machine!" They say this as though it is a major philosophical position, as opposed to a description of a minor neurosis. My feeling is, if you have a problem like this, you shouldn't go around trumpeting it; you should stay home and practice talking to a machine you can feel comfortable with, such as your Water Pik, until you are ready to assume your place in modern society.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Joy of Machines" by Dave Barry, 2005
The author mocks people who claim they hate interacting with machines, urging them to practice with harmless devices before judging modern technology.
In simple terms: Don’t just complain about machines; get comfortable with them first.
Key Takeaway
Practice with simple tech before criticizing.
Themes
humor
technology
social anxiety
Mood
playful
critical
encouraging
Type
satirical
advice
When to use this quote
- home
- using a waterpik
- learning new software
- public speaking with tech
Key Concepts
modern society
communication
adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can gradual exposure reduce tech anxiety?
- What simple device could you start with?
A Different Perspective
Some may argue that avoidance is a valid coping strategy.
![“[Answering the phone] Hello, this is a recording, you've dialed the right number, now hang up and don't do it again.” quote by Frank Sinatra](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fec/frank-sinatra-2702_answering-machines_answering-the-phone-hello-this-is-a-reco_27542.jpg)
