iFluence

Sometimes writing, like life itself, has room enough for what might be called "a fortunate accident." Can new words be made in this way? A moment ago I committed a small typo and noticed that I was reflecting on what, to me, is a new word: iFluence. It sounds like a dotcom, doesn't it?

Let's try to define it, then.

iFluence: the measurable action of information on human consciousness and intellect; the inherent power of information technology and services to create social change.

And to think, I merely wanted to record another quote from cultural historian Jacques Barzun:

"In art, influence does take place and when strongest is least literal. When it is literal it must be called plagiarism and the fact should not be concealed by the eminence of the thief."

What music am I listening to, at this moment? Hail to the Thief, by Radiohead. Of course.