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The Writing’s On The Wall
09th December 2008. Posted by Ruth Pipkin. Trackback
Photo by banlon1964
It’s that time of year when I dig out the gold and silver glitter pens and get ready to spread some Christmas cheer to friends, clients and colleagues. It might seem a bit old school these days, but I still love to send and receive cards.
The problem is that I seem to have lost the ability to hand write anything these days. It’s a wonder that I can still sign my name, but thankfully that requirement is rapidly going out of fashion.
I have fond memories of handwriting classes, and the hours we would spend meticulously forming the alphabet with our Berol italic pens. But there are increasing reports of children struggling with handwriting as new technology impacts on their ability, and the necessity, to communicate through the written word.
What does this matter? I hardly ever need to write these days. Surely this is just a sign of the times, and in the years ahead handwriting will become obsolete through a process of evolution?
I’m not so sure. There is a school of thought that suggests poor handwriting can impact on a child’s ability to express themselves, which is worrying considering that a growing number of children are apparently failing to meet the required standards for writing in their national tests.
Handwriting is one of those unique traits that marks us all out as individuals. It often reflects aspects of our personality and can even be used to assist with medical diagnosis. Giving up that identity in favour of speed and efficiency seems a sad loss.
One thing I do know, however much email and text messaging has transformed communication for the better, receiving a letter or card in the post will always create an impact with me, even if the scrawl isn’t much to write home about.
Comments
Such an interesting trail of thought... Bring back the dedicated handwriting lessons! I remember so clearly and fondly the day that I finally mastered the art of joined-up handwriting, and was allowed to ditch the trusty pencil for the sleek Berol Italic pen... what a proud day! Handwriting is a beautiful form of creative expression, and long may it continue!
Lucy Cannings-Barber
06th February 2009
Hey Lucy, thanks for commenting! If my memory serves me correctly you have lovely handwriting! Hope South Africa is treating you well x
Ruth Pipkin
06th February 2009