Detroit Edison has given us much to contemplate here—or 'there', back in 1956. Anticipation and regret, freedom and servitude, humanity and automation: Pretty heavy stuff, coming from a utility company.The washer is imperturbable, despite its novelty. Newly ensconced as the electric savior of the household, it sits dutiful and uncomplaining, even though it is fated to a life of loneliness.
The woman exits the laundry with a slightly uneasy backward glance. She knows full well her future is 'touch and go'. How will the inevitable additional appliances impact her world? Will they support or supplant her?
Marshall McLuhan said, 'The future is not what it used to be.' I say, it's enough to keep you up at night.