Offset printing is a commonly used technique in which the inked image is transferred (or “offset”) from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the printing surface. When used in combination with the lithographic process, which is based on the repulsion of oil and water, the offset technique employs a flat (planographic) image carrier on which the image to be printed obtains ink from ink rollers, while the non-printing area attracts a water-based film (called “fountain solution”), keeping the non-printing areas ink-free. The modern “web” process feeds a large reel of paper through a large press machine in several parts, typically for several metres, which then prints continuously as the paper is fed through.
Development of the offset press came in two versions: in 1875 by Robert Barclay of England for printing on tin, and in 1904 by Ira Washington Rubel of the United States for printing on paper.
Lithography was initially created to be an inexpensive method of reproducing artwork. This printing process was limited to use on flat, porous surfaces because the printing plates were produced from limestone. In fact, the word “lithograph” historically means “an image from stone” or “printed from stone”. Tin cans were popular packaging materials in the 19th century, but transfer technologies were required before the lithographic process could be used to print on the tin.
I don't love, I don't give, I don't care' cause
I've already been there
I don't want, I don't need, I don't take,
'cause I had it all
I don't guess, I just know, what this is,
is a place to die from
I am not what you see, you are real but not for real
I'm not scared, I'm not high, I'm a man
and I'm all right
We are here, we are gone, and the rest are
left to wonder
What is life, in the hand of illusion, what is life
to a man in confusion
What is right, for a life that is losin', what is time,
what is, what is, what is?
Take look, open up, look inside, what is there
In your heart, in your mind, in your soul
there's the answer
Why you want, why you need, the side effects of
what you see
What is life, in the hand of illusion
What is life, to a man in confusion
What is right for a life that is losin', what is time,
what is, what is, what is?
I don't pay, I just know what this is,