An excellent clarification of the question concerning form and function; my thanks to you, Dave. Yes, indeed, I believe I see now.

And would tend to agree with you - I'd rather have the messy computer than the pristine one ... however, at some stage I think I'd have to at least clean the grease stains off of it : )

Since speaking to you last, I've started on book 4 of TWOT and am either looking at it more critically - due largely to yourself and Sam - or there is a noticeable difference in Jordan's writing style as compared to the other works.

Either way, it is obvious he has become more .... self indulgent in his writing. Still, I'm enjoying the story for what it is ...