What was practicing law like 40 or 50 years ago? As a young lawyer, I find it miserable in this modern world with constant communication, emails, etc.

The practice of law 40 or 50 years ago was immeasurably different than it is now. Perhaps the best way to summarize the difference is that one had more time to work and reflect on representing a client and the practice was much more personal. Another major difference was there were not nearly as many lawyers. As a result, everyone sort of knew each other and there was regular contact between members of the bench and bar.