Something About a Pencil...

I discovered Moleskines a little over a year ago. I've just started No.5 this week.

Then I found the Pilot G-2 (blue ink, of course!).

Then I rekindled my childhood memories of wooden pencils. That need sharpening. Black Warriors, of course.

Along the way, I also found out that there are websites devoted to Moleskines and pens. Tonight I found one dedicated to the fine art of the pencil.

Go over there and check out this quote from Mr. Hemingway, on why writers should use pencils...

After you learn to write your whole object is to convey everything, every sensation, sight, feeling, place and emotion to the reader. To do this you have to work over what you write. If you write with a pencil you get three different sights at it to see if the reader is getting what you want him to. First when you read it over; then when it is typed you get another chance to improve it, and again in the proof. Writing it first in pencil gives you one-third more chance to improve it. That is .333 which is a damned good average for a hitter. It also keeps it fluid longer so that you can better it easier.

There is something about writing with a pencil. Maybe it's the way it sounds slightly scratchy as it goes across the paper. Maybe it's the fact that - for me, at least - your handwriting is neater than it is with a pen. (No, I don't know why that is! Do you?) Maybe it's that great sense that "do-overs" are possible with the little bit of Pink Pearl that extends from the "other" end. Maybe it's that slight aroma of cedar when it's freshly sharpened.

All I know is writing in my little journal - whether it's "a-ha!s" or "hmmmms" or story scraps or prayers or whatever - is a lot more enjoyable for me with the pencil.

Try it!