POSTCARD FROM PARIS | A STYLOPHILE’S PARADISE In kindergarten, my Catholic mother told me that if I said nine Hail Marys every Tuesday, the Blessed Mother would give me something I wanted. Of course, I dutifully said my prayers. Then Mom asked what I wanted. Without a moment’s hesitation, I cried out. “A fountain pen!”
I didn't know there was a word for me: stylophile! I love fountain pens and have the same early experience as you do Chip. When I was in grade 4 we were permitted to use fountain pens for the first time. Dad bought me a pair of matching Sheaffer pens which I used with enthusiasm and aplomb. I looked after them and took them with me to Melbourne Uni and was mortified when I lost one on the way from the Upper Law Theatre to the Union Building one day. I retraced my steps in vain. The other one simply wore out. Since then my pride of pen has been a S T Dupont (first one stolen from my office but replaced) and more recently spotted and exotically coloured ones from an Italian shop on Piccadilly in London. I have lately bought two ultra fine Lamys which help me write better and more legibly. My writing always looks good but is illegible upon inspection! One of the interesting things is that what I write in ink is completely different from what I type. The output could not be more different. But you exceed me in numbers of pens. I reckon I have a dozen but you have given me carte blanche to acquire one or two more. Thanks!
Mr. Chips, I really enjoy your Parisian itinerary and you've hit even a higher note with the fountain pens. I'm a lover of them also. I also use glass dip pens. You make me smile! I look forward to the next one! And happy Easter.
Chip you should join our fountain pen group in FB Lije you I had to use them in school and have loved them ever since. I have to force myself not to buy any more right now I just received a beautiful Parker sonata as a gift Haven’t inked it yet
Thanks, Angshuman, Bessy and Pamela,
It's very gratifying when a post strikes a chord in people I respect.
I didn't know there was a word for me: stylophile! I love fountain pens and have the same early experience as you do Chip. When I was in grade 4 we were permitted to use fountain pens for the first time. Dad bought me a pair of matching Sheaffer pens which I used with enthusiasm and aplomb. I looked after them and took them with me to Melbourne Uni and was mortified when I lost one on the way from the Upper Law Theatre to the Union Building one day. I retraced my steps in vain. The other one simply wore out. Since then my pride of pen has been a S T Dupont (first one stolen from my office but replaced) and more recently spotted and exotically coloured ones from an Italian shop on Piccadilly in London. I have lately bought two ultra fine Lamys which help me write better and more legibly. My writing always looks good but is illegible upon inspection! One of the interesting things is that what I write in ink is completely different from what I type. The output could not be more different. But you exceed me in numbers of pens. I reckon I have a dozen but you have given me carte blanche to acquire one or two more. Thanks!
Mr. Chips, I really enjoy your Parisian itinerary and you've hit even a higher note with the fountain pens. I'm a lover of them also. I also use glass dip pens. You make me smile! I look forward to the next one! And happy Easter.
Chip you should join our fountain pen group in FB Lije you I had to use them in school and have loved them ever since. I have to force myself not to buy any more right now I just received a beautiful Parker sonata as a gift Haven’t inked it yet
Your always grateful student
Bessy Reyna
Thanks for this charming piece -- I am a lover and seeker of fountain pens.