generation D

the generation D, the digital generation, is a relatively new concept (at least according to a google search), it describes the population that is savvy with computers, gadgets and electronics in general. it is used to access information directly and immediately, preferably through the internet and is not defined by age.[ just for the record I would like to add that generation D is also the title of an inofficial and unreleased frog album (ca 1999) that contained a number of remixes and b-sides, it is included in the vibecontrol catalogue on interactive recordings but we never got around of clearing the samples.] in many ways vibecontrol can be linked to the expression of generation D, it's individual members show characteristics that may fit under this umbrella. the cyberspace is part of it, cybertagging on cyberwalls, cybergraffiti so to speak [big up break]. the fashion element I do want to mention, long hours on the computer require certain adjustments, you want to dress comfortably, but in style. you carry your laptop with you all the time, you need a bag. your gadgets need chargers, cables and accessories, all that needs to be organized. working at night can help with the bandwidth, especially in the old days of telephone modems, an adjustment in lifestyle, it soon becomes a lifestyle. you may spend money on computer magazines, because they keep you up-to-date and they come with cds with software and tutorials. the nutrition is important, long hours in front of the screen can be draining, eating light is the way to go, computerwork requires discipline, it is a discipline, it is in many ways a meditation, it requires focus. it also can have side effects, carpal tunnel syndrome for example, distorted vision and other side-effects of repetetive motions, but what activity doesn't? the stereotype that was created by society and the media described this new school cyber geek with a skater attitude.. the urban creative. [I had to laugh when I saw this ad in the early 2000s, this guy with the small black glasses, sporting the fauxhawk, wearing baggy pants and producing music on his laptop... as always it's time to move on when things become a "trend".] unfortunately things have gone a little over the top, in terms of expression not too much new and truly innovative has happened over the last decade, most of these "innovations" have been there for a while, they are now just being commercialized. this new generation, that follows the D is called generation e, or so I have read and the "e" being written in small case, it stands for electronic. this is the generation that can not remember a world without wireless and cellphones, it is the one that was born into cyberspace so to speak. it has conversations via text, gathers their friends on facebook, twitters the latest news to the world and is in general overstimulated. as far as the original generation D goes, I have observed that many of them have strived to find the balance between using technology for it's benefits and otherwise trying to stay in touch with nature, organic lifestyle to compensate for the long hours in front of the screen. I think that the new alternative and green energy movement, solar for example is an expression and an effort of this pioneer generation that tries to bridge the gap between the analogue and the digital domain. since generation D by definition is not described by age it can not grow older, but it may grow wiser.