So true! Ambiguity is impossible to avoid in written language, try as we might. Emoticons, italics, caps and underscores have all arisen to address the problem, but ineffectively, and often at the expense of dignity, don't you agree?

;P

I hadn't thought of that as a benefit of this format, but you're totally right. Interesting to remember that, despite the dominance of the written word, oral culture always comes first, and script arises merely as the notation of it. In grad school, when we presented our poems, others would read them aloud, and it always blew me away how impossible it was to convey emphasis and inflection of tone accurately.

What you observe about the opportunity to deliberate, to collect meaning, to say exactly what you mean, how you feel, is probably my favorite thing about the e-Vox. That, and the irreplaceable joy that comes from hearing a well known, well loved voice clearly, speaking thoughts specifically to you.

Thanks so much for your reflections on this thing! I look forward to hearing how you enjoy it.