I liked the biro when it was invented, but the pleasure of watching the words ‘flow’ on the paper did not occur. I could not understand until I realised it was the writing with a quality pen and terrific nib, that caused my pleasure! I wrote dairies for every year, merely so that I had something constructive to do with my writing. I wrote stories with my pen, although it is far easier with my computer (which I use now).

But, a good pen will not leak, and I am now crazy about my Waterman Carene fountain pen. Not only does it look the ‘biz,’ it has a quality nib half hidden like a turtle head, and does not stain my fingers when I fill it up! It always writes perfectly and constantly, even on first taking the cap off. I like the thicker pens, (like this Carene) and it stabilises so well without turning around on writing. The barrel is exactly the right size and weight, so my writing is always neat and a pleasure to look at.

Unless I am literally scribbling some notes, I always use my fountain pen. Most things in life have deteriorated, as in the making of plastic chairs and tables, even the wooden kind are plain and ugly now. Gone is the workmanship of Chippendale and the look of quality. But, the fountain pen brings back the quality of yesteryear, and I hope that the young people will catch on again to the delight of writing with a fountain pen.