I think that there are many differences that come with hypertexts and codex ones. Each version of text comes with their own advantages and disadvantages, and depending on why each one is being used or the purpose of the text, I believe that the pros and cons can constantly be changing. While I love my kindle, I always prefer to have a codex book over an ebook. There is something familiar and comforting about having the physical book in my hands and being about to flip through it when I want. The disadvantages of course is that a kindle allows me to have an entire library on me at all times, as well as internet access, and lighting. A codex book means that I have to be in a lit area to read, and what I can carry is all that I can have with me.
Another advantage that ebooks have is cost. It can be much cheaper to have a digital text than codex, often you can find the text for free online. While I prefer to have codex editions of my texts, I chose not to get the physical copies of our books for this course mainly because of the price. I couldn’t afford to purchase these books when all of the content was online for me at no cost. I am also able to print out the articles if I wanted to, in a way making my own codex edition of the text. A problem that I have with my kindle books is highlighting and bookmarking. While it is possible to highlight and bookmark on the digital texts, it’s hard for me to find my notes and place. I know that if I highlight important notes or passages in my codex edition, then I can just skim through the pages until I find my familiar bright pink highlighter marks or bent pages. I also find that I have trouble staring at a lit screen for too long and I lose focus when all I read are digital texts.
All kinds of texts have their own pros and cons lists when it comes to their uses. I think that I mainly chose what kind of text to use with what is readily available to me and what I can afford. There may be some texts that are better to use in codex form, but the convenience and accessibility can hold me back from using it. This week’s readings made me understand that this is changing, and there is a possibility that hypertext will be expanding and become more interactive. I’m excited for this idea from an academic point of view, but no matter what, I think that I will always prefer to have a physical, solid book in my hands over a lit up screen.