I am not sure how many people still write thank you notes for gifts much less write them by hand any more? I had always never felt much of a desire to write them or receive them. That is until I became fascinated with fountain pens and handwriting. I am pretty sure that this desire comes from my determination and fascination to do things “old ways”.
This fountain pen is a Pilot Varsity disposable pen that I borrowed from a friend, who also happens to have a fetish for fountain pens. His fetish is much more expensive than mine at this point. I have yet to actually purchase one of my own but I have narrowed the options a bit and am looking forward to taking a trip to the pen shop. Yes, we actually still have a pen shop in this city. It will be a fun day. I have a post in the works on some of the pens I am looking at and will finish it shortly.
I liken my fascination to these pens to other things in my life that require a ritual. Making coffee, or tea, in my house is always whole bean and loose leaf. Both require a ritual of preparation that enhances the pleasure for me. I get the sensations of grinding the beans, and smelling them, not to mention a far superior cup of coffee or tea. Another similarity is preparing food, most meals here are lovingly crafted from whole ingredients, again requiring preparation.
I think that the act of taking out paper, inking a pen, and then writing, slowly because the words take much longer to form this way than typing, completes the act. It provides sensations that are not present with a computer which spits out perfect type every time. These thank you letters are unique, crafted by me solely for the recipient. This lets them know that I really appreciated their gift with a little bit of my time and creativity.
Everyone should try sending a handwritten letter or note to someone. It will really brighten their day and yours by writing it.
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