Crackling static against an almost inaudible background hum

Question

0 " The telephone system, after all, is really a vast , global computer network, with a distinctive , audible presence (crackling static against an almost inaudible background hum). " 02br02br00When I came across the above sentence , I felt confused. So I have several questions for people whoever can help me, and I will appreciate your help very much. 02br00question 1): Does the telephone system have the crackling static ? or does it have the almost inaudible background hum? 02br00question 2): what does the word "presence " mean here? Based on my culture, it is hard to understand its meaning here.  02br00question 3): what does the word " against" here mean? 02br02br00Thank you very much for your help in advance. 0-

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

01. It has both. 02br
002. It is noticeable. 02br
003. Together with / contrasting against. 0-

Davkett · Answer

0 I'd like to offer a more elaborate description of "against" in this context. 02br
02br
00In art, there is the term "figure/ ground" or "figure/field". "Figure" generally means a shape that is seen in front of a background (ground or field)... like in a picture of a chair in front of a wall. The viewer focuses on the chair, and vaguely takes in the wall. 02br
02br
00A crackling static against an almost inaudible background hum, suggests that the sound a listener tends to focus on, or hear first, is the crackling static. And the almost inaudible background hum, because it can't be heard as easily, forms a background sound. If the crackling static sound were removed, the listener could more easily hear the hum ,since it would now be in the foreground, or be the "figure" itself. 02br
02br
00Does this help at all? 0-

Crackling static against an almost inaudible background hum

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