In the chapter Paper or “Me, You Know,” from the book Paper Machines, Derrida explains how paper forms the backbone of our society.  The most clear point of Derrida’s is that the computer screen is still the form of paper. Even though a computer screen is not traditional paper, it still comes in the form of a blank page. When we type using a word processor, we type with the printed version in mind. He also discusses the “paper terminology” that comes along with our computers in the form of the notebook, paragraph options, lines, sheets, and pages. Even though the medium is different, the terminology basically stays the same.

The most confusing part of the chapter is when he talks about Freud and the mystic writing pad. I would probably understand it better if I knew more about Freud and his ideas. I am also a bit confused on page 55 where he discusses “uneven developments,” and “de-paperization of support.”

Overall, I think I understand his general idea, it’s just some of the bits a pieces that have me a little confused.