Tools of the Trade
There is a regular discussion amongst writers on what tools we prefer to use to get down the stories that swim in our heads.
Some take pride in being ‘old school’ and lift their noses in the air as they announce that they can only write with a pen/pencil and paper because creativity can only flow in the kinesthetic connection of hand to papyrus.
Within this group of writers there will be discussion as to whether one uses a pencil, ballpoint pen, fountain pen or even ink and quill. The more antiquated the more loftily many tend to present their preference. Further, there will be a debate on the type of paper. Is it lined? Is it in a spiral notebook or loose leaf? One might even have a definite sense of the quality of paper that is required to properly let the words flow.
In the modern writing group, there will be conversations on the pros and cons of using a laptop or tablet — with or without a pen/stylus— and, then this will inevitably lead to a comparison of different apps or word processing programs that are best for them.
Before electronic devices, I imagine this group would have also been in the typewriter and word processor circles.
As for me, well, I prefer all of the above. I know, controversial, right?
Since I was 8, I have written in a journal and this is done by hand. Although I have tried over the years to use an online diary program or have a regular digital space for this type of writing, I have found that it is not sustainable and does not meet my needs in what I tend to write in my journal. There is something to the kinesthetic argument that requires me to have a pen in hand to get my journal thoughts down on paper.
My preference for this hand-to-paper method is a fountain pen for letting the thoughts flow, but a ballpoint pen to record the date and time or more controlled thoughts such as gratitudes or poems. I use a lined notebook whether spiral or bound for the purpose of journaling, but I have used the dotted pages more common for bullet journals — which I have also done in combination with my journals for a period.
However, when I want to write for sharing or informing of my thoughts, experiences, ideas, then I tend to prefer to type. Thus, my blogging here, and in other spaces, are always done on my laptop or computer or with a keyboard on my tablets.
Now, there is a mixed-method I use with my Apple Pencil and iPad. This is mostly used when I do not want to carry around all of my tools of the trade since a tablet and small pencil can weigh a lot less and fit in a reasonably-sized bag for carrying around. Still, I must admit, this is truly only when I know I want to write, but do not want to be too encumbered.
So, what’s the conclusion?
Well, like with just about everything in this world, it’s up to you! You are the tradesman and crafter, so use the tools that best work for you. Do not be daunted by the old-schoolers who might look down on you for using modern methods. Do not be pressured by the contemporaries who find pen and paper antiquated. Use and try whatever method you want, I say!
Ultimately, what matters is that you open 📖 the sunshine ☀️ into your hearts ❤️ to write the stories📚 we all have to tell.
~Happy Writing! 📖☀️❤️
