The Timeless Quest: Writing a 100,000-Word Novel by Hand with Fountain Pens
Have you ever wondered how long it would take to write a 100,000-word novel using only fountain pens? This question isn't just academic; it touches upon the nuances of writing, ink, and the physical exertion involved in the process. In this article, we'll explore the intricacies of writing a significant work with fountain pens, drawing from the experiences of professional writers and historians.
Understanding Fountain Pens
Fountain pens, with their rich history and tactile elegance, have long been a favorite among writers. However, they differ significantly from ballpoint pens in terms of ink flow and maintenance. Ballpoint pens, like the tiny Lil international cartridges mentioned, are designed for quick, disposable use. They offer less ink capacity and disturb the fine balance of ink application necessary for smooth writing. In contrast, a piston filler like a TWSBI pen can hold a much greater volume of ink, allowing for prolonged use without interruptions.
Writing with a Heavy Ballpoint Pen (BPP)
While fountain pens are the go-to choice for many writers, heavy ballpoint pens like the Sheaffer 300 and some Invictas offer a different writing experience. These pens, characterized by their substantial weight and pressure requirements, provide a different tactile sensation. Unlike the almost effortless glide of a fountain pen, a heavy ballpoint pen requires a steady hand and a simple pressure to form words.
The added weight can make the writing process more strenuous, but it can also enhance the feel of the words on the page. This is a personal preference, and many writers find that the weight and the pressure needed are worth the effort. For instance, the Sheaffer 300 with its thick, heavy barrel, can create a profound, satisfying mark on the paper. Similarly, Invicta pens, thanks to their detailed craftsmanship, offer an exquisite writing experience.
Refilling Challenges
One of the primary challenges of using fountain pens is the frequent refilling. International cartridges, while designed to be economical, often do not hold much ink, making them unsuitable for extensive writing projects. On the other hand, piston fillers like the TWSBI hold significantly more ink, allowing for uninterrupted writing sessions. However, the need to refill the pen every so often means that the writer must stop and tend to the pen, which can interrupt the flow of writing.
Shakespeare and the Physical Toll
The physical effort required to write with heavy ballpoint pens (BPPs) or fountain pens (FPs) is something that Shakespeare himself would recognize. The effort to maintain a steady hand and control the pen for long periods can lead to writer's cramp, a common ailment among writers, especially those engaged in lengthy projects. The semantic burden of writing a 100,000-word novel, combined with the physical toll, can make the process a grueling one.
It is said that writing a novel of significant length is a solitary and laborious task. The effort required is multi-faceted, encompassing not just the intellectual and creative aspects but also the physical act of writing. The ergonomic advantages of fountain pens, such as the subtle pressure of the TWSBI, offer a more comfortable writing experience compared to the heavier ballpoint pens. However, the comforts of the fountain pen come at the cost of more frequent interruptions due to refilling.
Personal Experience and Anecdotes
My own experience with writing a 100,000-word novel in the days before personal computers provides a vivid example of the challenges involved. The first draft of my novel took approximately nine months to complete. This timeline, while not the norm, speaks to the bespoke and personal nature of the writing process. No author's writing journey is average; it is shaped by their unique experiences, the tools they use, and the effort they put in.
Takeaways:
Fountain pens require frequent refills, which can be time-consuming.Heavy ballpoint pens (BPPs) can be more challenging to use due to pressure requirements, but they offer a different writing physical effort of writing, combined with the need to maintain a steady hand and control the pen, can lead to writer's length of time it takes to write a 100,000-word novel is highly individual and varies based on the tools and techniques used.
A Final Thought
The journey of writing a 100,000-word novel, whether with fountain pens or ballpoint pens, is a profound one. It is a testament to the art of writing, the commitment of the writer, and the enduring appeal of the written word. While there is no average, each author's journey is invaluable, a unique blend of creativity, effort, and personal style.