“AVIDAC — First Argonne Computer (1953)” by Argonne National Laboratory, image licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 Some rights reserved.
“Corporate Motivation” by Jason Shaw (AudionautiX.com) song licensed under CC BY 4.0
I selected this music because of the title. (My husband has been grinding it out in the Fortune 500 for the last 25 years and until he got some relief from the “new normal” of hybrid work, he frequently complained about Muzak blaring in the office to provide a screen of privacy for conversations.) I like the idea that this woman is taking that common office practice to the next level. It is her job motivate underperforming workers by pumping this inspiring music directly into their cubicles until they meet their production quotas. Middle management has helpfully provided a list of which employees require her assistance to overcome their flagging enthusiasm for their assigned tasks.
I think that the meaning of the picture has changed by this combination and my interpretation. The image of this woman was captured at a time of great optimism that “computers were going to improve our lives” and now that hyped narrative seems a little dubious to many of us. I might be projecting here but Jason Shaw’s title of “Corporate Motivation” for a piece tagged as “bouncy, bright, and uplifting” really speaks to the ambiguity I feel about the benefits and drawbacks of the technological progression of our culture. Benefits for whom? If is is such an improvement for humanity, why do we require such interventions to boost our motivation?
“Provocation Incorporated” by Lisa MacKay-Ring derivative licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Hello Lisa,
As an image, this feels very nostalgic, where the typing and actions seem to be almost primitive in its display. The image shows a computer that was at that time super advanced, but with the advent of newer computers, seems very outdated. The audio does sound like something that could be part of a corporate meeting or even something that could be shown for the stock market. However, both are intriguing as they represent something that is engaging the listener/viewer.
The image, when viewed separately, depicts what is felt as the norm for a woman who is working with the changing technology. The audio seems more like a fast-paced social interaction. When coupled, they show that people often personify technology and link it to their own identity. Thus, the effect of the sound is to show that the woman is working so that she can continue to battle and win against the changes in society.
Another audio that might work well here would be the sounds of an office and keyboards. These would show that technology and people continue to be connected, like this image and audio combination. Additionally, a benny hill soundtrack might also be applicable here, because of the way the music is fast paced, upbeat and even full of saxophone sounds.
It is interesting that you mention Muzak, as this was something that was played all the time at my prior retail position. It was almost to the point where I heard the sound, didn’t necessarily like it, but it stuck with me and I would mumble the words. This would likely be how the woman in your picture would feel when she heard similar sounds from the computer when she was not at work.
Kelly,
Hi Lisa! I really liked the image and audio you selected and I thought they came together really well.
The image itself feels very old-timey, like something out of an old, archived newspaper. It being from 1953 makes a lot of sense, and I immediately thought of the 50s when I saw it. It feels historic and neutral emotionally. Meanwhile, the audio feels very modern and upbeat. It kind of reminds me of the Wii Sports music. I found the combination of the image and audio to be very unexpected but also very intriguing and enjoyable. I think it creates a new meaning, making a person reflect on new corporate culture in relation to the past. You could have easily chosen some old-fashioned music, but choosing something modern gives a unique spin on the image.
Also, I’m glad your husband is enjoying the hybrid workplace! I know the corporate sphere can be quite exhausting.
Hi Lisa! I really enjoyed this pairing and love this historical image. On its own, the photo feels optimistic and forward-looking, especially knowing it represents the early days of computer technology. The audio sounds upbeat and motivating, and when combined with the image, it adds a modern perspective that made me pause and think differently about the scene. Together, the image and sound invite reflection on ideas of progress, productivity, and motivation across time. I found the post engaging and easy to follow from start to finish!