Meaning: Ted Nelson, an American pioneer of information technology, made the above statement in the context of his work on hypertext and the concept of non-sequential writing. This quote reflects Nelson's vision of a digital environment where information can be organized, accessed, and navigated in a non-linear manner. In essence, he is highlighting the potential of computer storage to revolutionize the way information is structured and presented to users.

Nelson's vision of non-linear information storage and retrieval is closely tied to the concept of hypertext, which he introduced in the 1960s. Hypertext refers to a system of writing and organizing information in a way that allows for non-sequential access. In Nelson's view, traditional linear writing, such as books and articles, constrains the way information is presented and consumed. With computer storage and hypertext, he believed that individuals could access and interact with information in a more dynamic and personalized manner.

The quote suggests that Nelson saw computer storage as a powerful tool that could enable the creation of dynamic and adaptable content. He envisioned a system where the central topic of a document could be interconnected with related points, allowing users to navigate through the information based on their interests and needs. This approach contrasts with the fixed and linear nature of traditional printed materials, offering a more fluid and customizable reading experience.

Furthermore, Nelson's emphasis on allowing the central topic to move as the reader proceeded reflects his belief in the potential for user-driven navigation within digital documents. In a non-linear environment, the reader has the freedom to explore interconnected ideas and topics, with the central theme adapting and evolving based on their interactions. This concept aligns with the idea of empowering users to actively engage with and shape the content they consume, rather than passively following a predetermined sequence of information.

Nelson's quote also touches on the idea of relevance and centrality within non-linear information structures. By suggesting that less relevant points can be placed further away from the central topic, he highlights the potential for organizing information based on its significance to the user's current focus. In this way, the digital environment envisioned by Nelson accommodates a more personalized and efficient approach to information retrieval, where users can access the most relevant content while still having the option to explore peripheral or related material.

Overall, Ted Nelson's quote encapsulates his forward-thinking vision of leveraging computer storage and hypertext to transform the way information is organized, accessed, and navigated. His ideas have significantly influenced the development of digital content platforms and have paved the way for the dynamic and interactive information environments that we encounter today. Nelson's vision continues to inspire discussions and innovations in the fields of information technology, user experience design, and digital content creation.