Prologue (shallow) -

As a literary device, this specific prologue fulfills several critical roles:

Carr uses the prologue to contrast the "linear" thought encouraged by printed books with the "staccato" or fragmented thinking encouraged by the internet. Prologue (Shallow)

Carr begins by re-evaluating Marshall McLuhan’s warnings from the mid-20th century. As a literary device, this specific prologue fulfills

By starting with a relatable personal struggle—the inability to focus—Carr creates an immediate "hook" for the audience. V. Conclusion As a literary device

It introduces the biological "rules" Carr will later explore, such as the idea that our brains are constantly adapting to the tools we use.