The Curious Misconception of the 'Eet' Key on Typewriters

When discussing the enigmatic world of typewriters, one often encounters a unique term: 'eet'. This mythical key, seemingly invented by a creative pop culture reference, has become the subject of urban legends and internet lore. However, the reality is quite different. Let's delve into the truth behind the 'eet' key and explore the real history of backspace mechanisms on typewriters.

What the Backspace Key Actually Does

In the context of typewriters, the backspace key serves an essential function. It allows the user to move the typing mechanism back to the left. This feature enables corrections to be made either by overwriting the incorrect characters or by inserting corrections. Essentially, it helps in undoing the last few keystrokes, offering corrections and revisions with minimal effort.

The Absence of an 'Eet' Key

One important fact to clarify is that there is no such thing as an 'eet' key. Typewriters from the 19th and 20th centuries typically had a key labeled 'delete', 'backspace', or even no label at all. These mechanisms were not consistently labeled as 'eet'.

A quick trip to Google Images will reveal a variety of typewriter keyboards. Each typically features a backspace or delete key, often with varying designs but rarely with the mythical 'eet'. Unfortunately, pop culture has made us believe this false notion about the 'eet' key. It's a testament to how powerful and persistent urban legends can be.

Typewriting Memories from the 1980s

From my personal experience of using typewriters from around 1980 to 1986, I have never encountered an 'eet' key. This experience is shared by many others who use or have used typewriters during that period. The reality is that the backspace key was universally labeled, and it is this practical, functional label that has endured through the decades.

For those interested, it's worth noting that the term 'delete' or 'backspace' was commonly used, and some typewriters may have had a blank key or an arrow to indicate this function.

Regina Spektor and the Myth of 'Eet'

One might wonder why the myth of the 'eet' key persists. The explanation lies in a musical reference. Regina Spektor's fantastic song 'Eet' features a video where a typewriter is prominently featured. The typewriter in the video has a gigantic 'eet' key, which has added to the confusion and the urban legend. This creative portrayal has unfortunately led to widespread misunderstanding about the actual typewriter keys.

While the 'eet' key might be a fantastic element for a song's video, it is not a real typewriter feature from the historical records. The authenticity of typewriters lies in their practical design, with labels like 'delete', 'backspace', or simply an arrow or blank key representing the function.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 'eet' key is a myth that has been propagated through pop culture and urban legends. Real typewriters had a backspace or delete key, serving the essential function of correcting mistakes. While the term 'eet' might make for a fascinating song, it serves as a reminder of how important it is to separate fiction from historical fact.

For those interested in typewriters, understanding the true functionalities and functions of these old machines can be both enlightening and enjoyable. Whether you're a historian, a collector, or a casual observer, exploring the real history of typewriters can provide a deeper appreciation for these devices that have been a crucial part of human communication for centuries.