From Semi-Public Diaries to Social Networks: History and Transformations of Personal Writing

The relevance of the article. The article delves into the history and cultural significance of semi-public diaries, created with the intention of being read, and compares them to modern social networks. The topic is particularly relevant taking into account the growing popularity of social networks and the transformation of traditional cultural practices of personal writing, self-reflection and self-expression. The purpose of the article. The purpose is to trace the history of semi-public diaries and compare their accounting-and-reflection practices with those found in social networks personal profiles, focusing on the interplay between public and private domains. The methodology. The article utilizes a comparative analysis of diaries and social networks, examining their historical evolution and contemporary practices, and draws on existing research from cultural studies, history, and media studies. The results. The study reveals that diaries have long been used to share individual reflections with others, making their personal writing practices similar to those of modern social network profiles. The study discovered that pre-internet era diaries and contemporary social networks have two similar intentions for personal writing: firstly, to document and reflect on personal experiences for private purposes, such as for self-reflection, life-tracking and identity formation, and secondly, to share personal ideas and experiences with others. This duality generates tension between the public and private aspects of personal writing. The scientific novelty. The study offers a fresh perspective on the role of diaries in the cultural practice of personal writing by examining their similarities with modern social networks and emphasizing the interaction between private and public domains in documenting and reflecting on personal experiences. The practical significance. Understanding the historical and cultural context of diaries and social networks can help individuals better appreciate the functions and potential benefits of these mediums for personal reflection and communication. The findings of this study can also inform future research into the role of personal writing in identity formation and the ways in which technology is transforming the nature of personal writing. The conclusions. This study demonstrates the enduring relevance of accounting-and-reflection practices of personal writing in both diaries and modern social networks. Additional comparative research is required to examine the similarities and differences in topics and styles of personal writing across diaries and social networks, as well as the balance between public and private domains when using social networks for self-expression and identity formation.