The whole aesthetics of computers very much feeds into my OCD. They fill my head with obsessionalities and my actions become very repetitive. It seems quite inimical to the dreamy state out of which fiction comes which seems so much less causally repetitive than the way one works on computers.

The quote by Will Self, "The whole aesthetics of computers very much feeds into my OCD. They fill my head with obsessionalities and my actions become very repetitive. It seems quite inimical to the dreamy state out of which fiction comes which seems so much less causally repetitive than the way one works on computers," explores the impact of computers on the mind and creative process. Self suggests that the structure and repetitive nature of working with computers can exacerbate his obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), leading him to feel trapped in a cycle of repetitive actions and thoughts. This contrasts with the free-flowing, creative process of writing fiction, which he feels should be more spontaneous and imaginative, not bound by rigid routines.

Self’s comment underscores how the digital world—with its constant demands for efficiency, precision, and repetition—can interfere with the more fluid and intuitive aspects of creativity. While fiction often thrives on imagination, intuition, and unstructured thinking, computers impose a level of structure and repetition that feels antithetical to the dreamy and free-form state needed for writing. The rigid, task-oriented nature of computing contrasts sharply with the organic flow of ideas required for creative writing.

The origin of this quote comes from Will Self, a British author known for his works of fiction, essays, and social commentary. Self has often written about the complexities of modern life and the effects of technology on mental health and creativity. His reflections on OCD and the role computers play in shaping thought patterns reveal his deep concerns about the ways in which digital technology can shape and constrain human behavior and creativity.

Self’s words serve as a reminder of the psychological and creative challenges posed by modern technology. While computers offer immense utility, they also come with potential downsides, particularly for those whose minds are prone to repetitive thought patterns. His quote invites reflection on how we interact with technology and the importance of protecting the creative, intuitive aspects of our minds from being overly constrained by the structures of the digital world.