Maybe these days it is more the difference between the right emoticon and the almost right emoticon.

The written word probably peaked as an art form about the same time Twain did as a writer. They pretty much had the stage all to themselves back then. Technology always changes the landscape of expression. Even the written word didn't have much sway until the printing press came along. 

I remember my Apache wife's grandparents were very concerned about the oral traditions of the tribe being lost. Written language meant very little to them. That was a European concept to their eyes, and ears.

Change is never good or bad. We make that part up. It just is....