99% Invisible The Country of the Blind
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Jul 25, 2023 Andrew Leland, a reporter and author, shares his poignant journey of vision loss, transitioning from sight to seeing the world through a narrow lens. He explores the evolution of reading technologies for the blind, spotlighting historical figures like Louis Braille. Leland discusses innovative methods of reading, emphasizing how auditory and tactile approaches can enrich literature appreciation. He also reflects on the complex identity of living with blindness, challenging societal misconceptions and celebrating the joys that can accompany this unique experience.
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Talking Books Expand 'Book'
- Early talking books raised design questions about translating print elements into sound.
- The definition of "book" expanded, encompassing diverse audio content.
Practicality over Aesthetics
- Some blind readers found early talking books too slow and theatrical.
- They prioritized information over sonic aesthetics, leading to changes in narration style.
The Optiphone
- Harvey Lauer, a blind VA employee, used an Optiphone, translating text into musical tones.
- This "musical print" allowed some blind people to read ink print books.
