Is the Art of Handwriting Dying?

Nowadays almost everyone is typing or texting (SMS) instead of using that very old-fashioned form of communicating, the written word. Any discussion of the lost art of the spoken word is left to another forum. The most handwriting we do these days, outside of schools, involves little more than a signature. And even many schools are shifting to computerized exams and homework assignments. Can it really be because we are trying to save trees? Somehow, I don’t think so.

Taking notes, involving the use of a pen or pencil, typically employs a personal form of shorthand and cannot really be considered penmanship. But even this will soon be lost to  the ipad or some other form of electronic device which will use a type font.

I suppose that as long as we continue to communicate, losing this art form will not raise any concerns. Except to those people who still appreciate the beauty of the handwritten word. To them there is a certain sexiness in the careful curvature of letters that goes beyond simply conveying a message. The sinuous flow and connectivity of a handwritten sentence can expose a great deal about the writer. Using the proper words to articulate your feelings can be enhanced by a handwritten word in ways that type face simply cannot.

Sending a handwritten note communicates a level of intimacy that cannot be conveyed through the cold sharpness of a typed word or, shudder, the abbreviated semblance of ‘words’ that is the domain of the texting world.

Free fonts to personalize the feel of our blogs and websites abound if you but take the time to look for them. Some of there fairly closely resemble handwriting and I have noticed there are bloggers out there who are beginning to shun traditional typeface in favor of fake handwriting typeface. There are still others who choose to use their own handwriting by simply scanning their writings into their posts.  Sabrina Ward Harrison’s blog displays her uncensored and uncorrected handwriting that, perhaps, during a time when everyone was still handwriting everything, may have been viewed as, well, sloppy. But, that ‘sloppiness’ now denotes a raw quality that is somehow fresh.

Calligraphy is the ‘art of handwriting’. A person skilled in Calligraphy can add such a tremendous depth to the written word. I love viewing beautiful handwriting. The personal touch, the patience and attention that goes into really good calligraphy denotes confidence and passion.

I’m willing to bet that if you were to write a personal note to someone instead of choosing a pre-typed greeting card, you would be pleasantly surprised by the response. I think deep down we all appreciate receiving a handwritten message. It shows the person thought enough of you to take the time to write instead of relying on some run of the mill expression in a greeting card.

So, liven up your blog, your website, your note taking and your personal life by re-discovering the art of handwriting. You’ll e glad you did.