In a surprising twist of events, a seasoned writer finds themselves grappling with an old-school method of communication—writing with pen and paper. For the first time in 35 years, the absence of their trusty laptop has forced a reflection on the lost art of handwriting. This change has stirred up memories of an academic past marred by disappointing grades, attributed largely to illegible handwriting.
The writer, accustomed to the digital ease and convenience of typing, now confronts the challenges of manual writing. This shift has prompted a deeper examination of how the 21st century's digital advancements have eroded the once-common practice of pausing to think before committing thoughts to paper. The writer notes that the act of writing by hand naturally necessitates more contemplation before jotting down ideas.
Reflecting on their academic history, the writer recalls receiving a 2:2 grade in an examination—a result that left them feeling disappointed. The expectation of attaining a first-class grade was thwarted, partly due to the examiners' difficulty in deciphering their notoriously hard-to-read handwriting. This past experience underscores a broader issue: the writer's handwriting has consistently posed problems for others tasked with reading their work.
In this recent endeavor, the writer's handlers at the Guardian faced a similar challenge. Charged with transcribing handwritten text onto a computer, they struggled with the same obstacle—illegible handwriting. This difficulty serves as a reminder of how handwriting, once an essential skill, has become a source of frustration in today's digital age.
The writer's journey from digital to manual writing has not only been a practical inconvenience but also an opportunity for introspection. It highlights how the shift from traditional to modern methods can impact both personal and professional spheres. The writer's experience suggests that the decline in handwriting skills may have wider implications for communication and expression.