# Nostalgic Writing: Why I Choose Microsoft Word 5.5 in 2024
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Chapter 1: The Charm of Old Software
In the year 2024, it might seem peculiar to be utilizing Microsoft Word 5.5—a word processor that is over thirty years old—when there are numerous modern alternatives available, including free and always accessible platforms like Google Docs. But what draws someone to such outdated software? Does it lack features that contemporary programs offer? While that’s partially true, the missing functionalities become insignificant when the emphasis is placed on the act of writing itself rather than the tools used.
I have several ways to run old DOS-based applications like MS Word on my laptop, with the most straightforward method being DOSBox-x. When I launch it in full-screen mode, I’m transported back to the nostalgic environment of DOS. However, I don’t have direct access to tools like CHATGPT, nor is there an easy way to transfer text between my verbose AI assistant and this vintage software. Surprisingly, this limitation is not a drawback.
This leads me to the primary advantage of using Word for DOS: it provides a distraction-free writing experience. When I have DOSBox open in full screen, I’m not interrupted by notification alerts from Windows or overwhelmed by numerous formatting options. Unlike modern WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editors, Word 5.5 separates the writing process from presentation, allowing me to focus solely on my words without wasting time searching for the perfect font or getting distracted by spelling and grammar corrections. After all, that’s what editing is for; inline suggestions disrupt my creative flow.
Section 1.1: The Simplicity of a Minimalist Interface
In this environment, I only have a menu and a text area—what more do I really need for writing? The white text on a blue background is also much kinder to my aging eyes compared to the standard black-on-white layout of modern applications, which dark mode doesn’t always rectify.
Certainly, I miss out on collaborative writing features and live word counts, but let’s be honest—do I really have friends to collaborate with? I also don’t find myself constantly glancing at the screen to check my word count.
Subsection 1.1.1: Embracing Disconnection
When I’m writing, I don’t even notice if there’s an internet outage. I’m fully immersed in a disconnected world. Moreover, my reliance on the keyboard enhances my productivity; I can execute commands and navigate menus without needing to reach for the mouse, which would break my concentration.
Everything runs quickly—load times, file saving, scrolling—I’m using a computer that is exponentially faster than the one this software was designed for. My modern laptop handles it effortlessly. Even older models, like a ten-year-old Netbook, are capable of running it smoothly. You can even use FreeDos to convert your old laptop into a DOS machine with modern features such as USB support.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Learning Curve
Even a mid-2010s MacBook can handle this software proficiently. I’ve heard that George R. R. Martin uses WordStar, a program that predates Word for DOS by more than a decade.
Certainly, there’s a learning curve involved, especially for those who didn’t grow up using DOS. The commands differ from what we’ve become accustomed to in Windows. However, I believe the rewards of this nostalgic experience far outweigh the initial difficulties.
So, I ask you: what is your preferred word processor?