Rewind: [ree-wahynd] the very real repetition of vital information; if fake, please see déjà vu.
Tapes, VHS cassettes, and movie reels are so obsolete at this point that a link to the standardized Webster’s definition of rewind might be in order. Of course, we can track backwards on CDs, DVDs, mp3s, etc. also, so why look specifically at tape-bound devices?
Simple: the unbelievable frustration we used to experience as we spent our lives rewinding tapes, stopping and starting again to see if we hit the right spot, paying fines at Blockbuster for failing to uphold our end of the $3.99, one-night rental agreement. “Be Kind, Please Rewind” is one mainstay of old-time morality we’re all happy to let drift away.
The most important part of the rewinding analogy, though, is the relationship between the cassette being rewound and the rewinder—that individual making the decision to rewind the content for a second experience. Tapes never rewind themselves, although many do dream of one day having the moxie to exercise such executive autonomy. The fact of the matter is that tapes have not advanced to a level of self-awareness that allows for them to accurately identify moments of sensory input that should be seen or heard twice. In military experiments, top-performing tapes still failed to rewind themselves to the funniest parts of Dumb and Dumber after months of intensive training.
There is some doubt as to whether or not presenters have this capacity, too. Certainly, an increased level of moxie is necessary to repeat one’s words or ideas. Even more so, though, said act would require a true connection with the audience to properly gauge their willingness to be subjected to an involuntary rewind of the sensory experience they just waded through. Proceed with caution.
The Takeaway: The world’s most famous speeches all employ repetition, but we can forget how many individuals have tried to use the rewind to lesser effect. If it is absolutely vital to communicate a certain idea, use all other means necessary—smart design, timing, hand gestures, etc.—before resorting to a literal rewind of the presentation.
