Gifts for Writers: Part 1

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November 11, 2:13 PM

by Guy Incognito, Writing Examiner

 

My preferred version. This thing never leaves my side.

(Disclaimer: This list is completely based on my experience of what does and doesn't work, what is invaluable and what just takes up desk space. If any of you out there have additional ideas, please send them in. I'd love to know what you all think is handy/useful in your own work.)

Useful Gift #1: Moleskins

These things have been around since the 19th century, and there's a reason.

From the website:

MOLESKINE is the legendary notebook that has held the inspirations and ideas of everyone from Van Gogh, Picasso and Hemingway to famed author, Bruce Chatwin. Artists, authors, and geniuses of all variety have long appreciated the simplicity and superior functionality of these notebooks.

Originally these books were produced by small French bookbinders who supplied the Parisian stationery shops frequented by the international avant-garde. However, In 1986, the last manufacturer of Moleskine, a family operation in Tours, closed and Moleskines were gone but not forgotten. As a result of their previous popularity and demand, they did return. In 1998, a small Milanese publisher brought these books back for writers, artists, travelers and all free-thinkers around the globe.

I will say, when I was given one of these, I was skeptical. I, like many writers, have scads of notebooks dating back many years. Despite the history and the famous names associated with the product, I wondered what possible difference there could be in this notebook as opposed the others that dot my shelves.

That being said, I decided to give it a try. And I will say, this is my favorite notebook I've ever owned. It's well sized, the fact that there are no lines on the page allows me freedom to either write notes, outlines, sketch basic ideas, whatever. Now when I mentioned these, I'm specifically speaking to this version. I don't have a lot of experience with the other varieties because I haven't needed a new notebook in quite a while.

The size is neither too big nor too small. It fits easily in a bag or purse, yet you have the space to really craft an idea without having to write in mini-print. It's simple, unadorned, and utilitarian. This seems to translate as "People won't be afriad to use it."

Of course, these things come in all shapes and styles, so choose the one that best suits the writer you're shopping for.

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