Martin Kohan: Whoever was left can't help but wonder what happened

Martín Kohan, an Argentine writer and professor of Literary Theory at the University of Buenos Aires, recently spoke about his latest novel, La separación, which explores themes of uncertainty, intimacy, and human connection through the story of a man traveling from Retiro to La Paz, a small town in Córdoba, to visit his recently separated brother. The conversation took place at the bustling Palermo bar Mills, one of Kohan’s preferred spots for work, away from the distractions of home. During the discussion, Kohan reflected on how modern technology, particularly mobile phones, has altered communication and concentration. Kohan described his experience with a mobile phone devoid of camera or internet capabilities, essentially a device for calling and texting. He noted that while he finds such devices appealing, they have become increasingly absent from daily life due to their integration into other technologies. This observation led him to write ¿Hola? Un réquiem para el teléfono, a book examining the dissonance between the word "phone" and its current form, a multifunctional device that often serves more as a television than a means of direct communication. During the interview, Kohan discussed how students today bring televisions into classrooms, a phenomenon he attributes to the blurring lines between different forms of media consumption. He recounted an instance on public transport where someone was watching content with the volume turned up, prompting him to ask them to lower it. The person hesitated before realizing they were indeed watching television rather than using a phone. Kohan emphasized this distinction, noting that students who watch TikTok during class are not merely using a phone, they are engaging with television, thus hindering their ability to learn effectively. The writer also addressed concerns about the impact of digital devices on reading and concentration among his students. While acknowledging that his perspective might be biased given his role teaching Literature, he observed that even those who choose to study literature often struggle with focus. He explained that carrying a computer everywhere, which essentially contains a phone, can lead to constant distraction. Previously, people could separate the act of reading from being distracted, but now, notifications, vibrations, and messages appear on the same screen, making sustained attention extremely challenging. Kohan elaborated on how the concept of a "phone" has evolved beyond its traditional function. He pointed out how common phrases like "give me the phone so I can take a photo" reflect this shift, drawing parallels to the works of Julio Cortázar. Additionally, he highlighted how language shapes behavior, citing instances where people refer to virtual meetings as "reunions," despite the lack of physical presence. As the conversation continued, Kohan expressed his views on the broader implications of these changes in communication and learning environments. His insights underscored the complex relationship between technology and human interaction, suggesting that the evolution of devices continues to influence both personal and academic experiences.