At the risk of sounding decrepit and backward-looking, I love paper maps. I love online maps and smartphone mapping apps, of course, but there’s nothing like a large detailed paper map to give you a sense of place and context.
I’m not alone in this, as evidenced by a Bangord Daily News Story about people alarmed that Garmin, the GPS folks, have bought DeLorme Atlas, makers of gorgeous state map books that you’ll find in many a vehicle. The story gives it a very Maine-ish twist, but I think it applies to just about anywhere:
When you’re deep in the woods, turned around, and realizing that all of the logging roads look the same, the most welcome face you’ll find belongs to the guy who stops, pulls out his dog-eared DeLorme, and shows you exactly where you are. That guy? He’s a true Mainer, no matter what kind of boots he’s wearing.
The story is here.
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