To the father of ZX Spectrum

Photo by Wikipedia

A few weeks ago, the charismatic inventor and entrepreneur Sir Clive Sinclair left the world; the creator of the ZX Spectrum which has made it affordable and usable to a large number of people. Born in 1940, in addition to being a pioneer of the British computer industry and video games, he also invented the first slimline electronic pocket calculator and the electric vehicle which failed in the end.

He was a member of the British Mensa and in his spare time, a fan of poetry, running marathons and poker. The most interesting part is that he did not use the internet and computers which he said interfered with his creative process, but used to write letters. This is what he said about sending emails: "Well I find them annoying. I'd much prefer someone would telephone me if they want to communicate. No, it's not sheer laziness - I just don't want to be distracted by the whole process. Nightmare."

It is comforting to know that he was a man whose work did not strictly determine his habits. I hope that his letter delighted many who received it, as the information I read about him remained saved in my mind so I remember it regularly ever since. Maybe because it gives hope that we can be much more than we do. If we choose it.