Montblanc — A pen worth writing for
Do many people own fountain pens anymore?
It’s hard to know for sure, the incredible amount of noise delivered daily by a digitally biased ecosystem renders it nearly impossible to glean the true sentiment.
I have to say, I take great comfort that I straddle eras; life pre- and post- internet. I remember sitting down pen in hand, navigating the change of ink with great care, under the very real threat of creating a blue stained canvas rather than a letter. I loved my fountain pen because it required mastery; it was not something that gave in willingly. It was a tool that turned writing into real artistry, even with my scrawled attempt at calligraphy. The writing process was tactile and emotive, lending a veracity to the words that typing cannot replicate.
That’s not to say that people don’t write today, but there is big difference between truly writing and committing pen to paper—or card—for birthday wishes, holiday greetings or other congratulatory activities. Writing with fountain pen is a more serious endeavour, one without correction, one that (ideally) requires consideration before binding your words in permanence.
You hear the oft said adage “Think, before you speak” but in actuality “Think, before you write” was more pertinent phrase for my youth, with precious commodities at risk of being wasted, namely paper, ink and most importantly for me, time.
Keeping the artistry of writing alive is purveyor of luxury writing instruments Montblanc, their latest series paying tribute to esteemed Scottish novelist, poet and travel writer Robert Louis Stevenson (1850 – 1894). In a series of four limited edition release pens, this Montblanc collection illustrates the life of Robert Louis Stevenson, using references from his works, and particularly his most famed book Treasure Island.
“Drawing inspiration from the bank note issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland to commemorate the author, Writers Edition Homage to Robert Louis Stevenson Limited Edition 94 is embellished with hand engraved symbols, like a treasure chest, revolver and pipe alongside an inlay of Long John Silver.”
Given that the use of a fountain pen is a more-scarce occurrence these days, having the inspiration of one of history’s greatest writers in hand would embellish an already special experience for anyone. The weighty reassurance of a good pen is hard to beat, let alone one with historic cues. This truly is a pen worth writing for.
The Montblanc Writers Edition Homage to Robert Louis Stevenson is available from Montblanc boutiques and online.
