"While the spoken word can travel faster, you can't take it home in your hand. Only the written word can be absorbed wholly at the convenience of the reader"

Kingman Brewster Jr.'s quote records the essence of two distinct yet complementary forms of communication: the spoken word and the composed word. By asserting that the spoken word "can take a trip faster" however "you can't take it home in your hand", Brewster is highlighting the immediacy and ephemeral nature of spoken communication. When somebody speaks, their words are sent quickly, allowing for fast exchange of concepts and emotions. This immediacy can result in dynamic interactions, enabling listeners to react in real-time. Nevertheless, this short-term quality also means that spoken words can be as short lived as they are impactful-- as soon as spoken, they remain just in memory and can not be physically held or revisited in the same form.

On the other hand, Brewster contrasts this with the written word, which "can be soaked up wholly at the convenience of the reader". This phrase underscores the permanence and accessibility gave by writing. Written words are not bound by the restrictions of time and immediacy; they can be checked out, re-read, evaluated, and pondered at the reader's discretion. This makes sure that readers engage with the material by themselves terms, taking in the information thoroughly and analyzing it at their own pace.

Moreover, written interaction enables reflection, providing the reader an opportunity to dig much deeper into the nuances of the text and derive interpretations beyond preliminary impressions. This temporal flexibility verifies the lasting power of the written word, capable of affecting generations and standing as testaments to history and thought.

In essence, Brewster catches the duality inherent in these modes of interaction-- one offers speed and the vibrancy of live interaction, while the other deals depth, permanence, and the luxury of time. Both types have their location and are important in communicating messages, concepts, and feelings thoroughly.