Gutenberg: “I Printed the First Advertising Brochure Without Even Realizing It!”

The first known printed advertisement was published in Mainz, Germany in 1472. It was an advertisement for the Bible printed on the printing press invented by the famous inventor Gutenberg: “A beautiful, 42-line Bible, carefully printed and meticulously corrected,” followed by a short text in Latin with information on where and how it could be purchased. In our first issue, as we decided to conduct an interview on the theme of “FIRST,” we decided to have an inspiring interview with Gutenberg.

Gutenberg’s invention, the printing press, was a revolutionary step in the dissemination of knowledge and culture. This invention meant a great change not only for the publishing world but also for advertising.

The advertising brochure Gutenberg prepared for his first printed book laid the foundations of modern advertising. It was not just a product promotion but also represented the beginning of a new era. Gutenberg’s innovative approach played a significant role in the evolution of the creative industry and formed the cornerstones of the advertising and publishing world as we know it today.

Our interview to explore the vision, firsts, and challenges experienced by this pioneering individual will also be a source of inspiration to explain the power and impact of firsts. Of course, for such an interview, we will need to utilize the possibilities and capabilities of artificial intelligence. Let’s see how the AI Co-pilot responded to our questions. Come, let’s discover the story of Johannes Gutenberg and the magic of firsts together!

WHAT DO YOU SAY?

What are your thoughts on the concept of “first”?

For me, the concept of “first” means innovation and discovery. Every “first” is the beginning of a new adventure. When I invented the printing press, it wasn’t just a technical achievement; it was also a revolution that radically changed access to information. Firsts are steps taken with courage and determination. These steps are taken towards an unknown future and often involve great risks. However, these risks also hold great opportunities. Printing a book for the first time was not just a technical success but also a cultural and social revolution. This revolution fundamentally changed people’s access to information and greatly contributed to the development of societies.

Firsts also represent the beginning of personal development and learning. Every new experience teaches us new things and makes us wiser. Firsts are turning points in our lives, and these points shape our future. The excitement and uncertainty of doing something for the first time form the basis of creativity and innovation. Therefore, the concept of “first” is of great importance to me and always encourages me to pursue new beginnings.

What does “first” mean to you? What are some unforgettable “firsts” in your life?

For me, “first” means courage and innovation. Printing a book for the first time was one of the most exciting moments of my life. The excitement of that moment and the happiness given by innovation are still in my mind. When I invented the printing press, it wasn’t just a technical achievement; it was also a revolution that radically changed access to information. Printing a book for the first time, preparing an advertising brochure for that book, was not just a technical success but also meant a cultural and social revolution. Throughout my life, I have undertaken many ventures. I have had many inventions. However, the unforgettable “first” and my true success in my life was the printing press.

GLAD I DID IT!

What are the “firsts” you are glad you did?

I’m glad I invented the printing press. Don’t mind my smile. The printing press wasn’t just an invention that brought me good earnings. I know that it was also a major turning point for all of humanity. Printing a book for the first time was one of the most exciting moments of my life. The excitement of that moment and the happiness given by innovation are still in my mind. Moreover, without even realizing it, with the handbill I prepared and printed for the promotion of the first book, I also paved the way for the beginning of the advertising industry.

WISH I HAD!

Given the chance, what is the “first thing” you wish you could relive?

Ah, I wish I could relive that moment when I printed my first book. The excitement and pride of that moment were truly indescribable. Seeing the printing press working, realizing that the first pages were printed perfectly… That was one of the most unforgettable moments of my life. The happiness and sense of accomplishment that moment gave me are still vivid within me. The excitement and uncertainty of doing something for the first time form the basis of creativity and innovation.

If you were given a chance to change one thing, what would you change first?

If I had a chance to change one thing, I would want to increase the speed at which the printing press spread. In the beginning, it was quite difficult to fully explain and gain acceptance for the potential of the printing press. People were cautious about innovations, and that’s why the spread of the printing press took time. I wish I could have convinced more people faster. This way, access to information could have spread more quickly, and more people could have benefited from this revolution. The excitement and uncertainty of doing something for the first time form the basis of creativity and innovation.

WHAT A RELIEF TO BE DONE WITH!

What is the first thing you would want to put an end to?

I would abolish the taxes levied on the sale of books. We publishers already do difficult work. And then there are the taxes we pay… Just kidding. Seriously, if I could end something, it would be the limitations on access to information. In the early days, access to books and information was limited to a certain segment of society. With the invention of the printing press, we managed to change this situation, but there were still inequalities in access to information. I wish I could have created a world where everyone had equal access to information. Knowledge liberates people and moves societies forward. Therefore, eliminating all obstacles to accessing information would be the first thing I would want to put an end to.

DEFINITELY GOING TO DO!

So, what “first” will you do tomorrow?

Tomorrow, the first thing I will do is check the ink level of the printing press. Then maybe I’ll have a coffee and think, “Which book should I print today?” Who knows, maybe I’ll print a novel for the first time!