It's difficult to gage where I stand along this spectrum of first and last word art because the need for both is so evident. If we only have first word art, we will never move out of the "novel" stage, and nothing will be built upon, improved, or analyzed in depth. It would be similar to a conversation in which every person is simply waiting for their turn to speak, not absorbing or reflecting on the thoughts of those surrounding them. On the other hand, having only last word art would be as equally implausible; if we turn our backs on what is new and novel, we can only work to improve the limited scope of what already exists. As for technology and culture, I believe that while technology can incite quicker change, culture will always be what determines its success. Throughout history, we seem to gage major shifts in culture based on technological advancements: the Industrial Revolution, internet, smartphones, etc. However, at the core of all these major shifts lie societal impulses that seem to be ingrained in our human nature--the need for information, speed, convenience, and "more" in general. All in all, as technology continues to advance, our essence stays the same.