Richard Polt reproduced a cartoon strip called OVER THE RIBBON in his book The Typewriter Revolution. The strip was drawn by a guy named Max Rudiari. I haven’t seen anything from him since, so I thought I would use Adobe Illustrator to riff on those delightful typewriter cartoons. This one showcases how I feel every morning, pulling out my typewriter and feeling a burst of optimism — part of my Crazy Mad Poet series.
Advertisement film for Robotron typewriters. Made in East Germany. The look and feel of these ads is like something out of James Bond.
I’m in the process or securing the use of the Claremont, CA, Helen Renwick Library to hold a type-in this May. For those who’ve done this sort of thing, organized them, etc., I have a few questions.
The library wants a $60 fee as well as proof of 1,000,000 liability insurance, which can be purchased for one day.
Are these fees usual for such an event? Would I be better off finding another site?
The facilities there are excellent. But I’ve never organized a type-in before (actually I’ve never attended one) and want to get some input from the Typosphere before I pull the trigger on the deal.
I typed this post on a Montgomery Ward Signature 440T typewriter, similar to the one owned by the Unabomber
BOSTON – Cambridge Typewriter Co., the last remaining typewriter store in the Boston area, is set to close its doors in March 2025 after more than 50 years in business. The closure comes at a time when typewriters are experiencing an unexpected revival in popularity.
Tom Furrier, the store’s owner, has announced his retirement after 45 years of repairing, selling, and maintaining typewriters. The shop, located in Arlington, Massachusetts, has been a fixture in the community since 1968.
Despite the store’s impending closure, the typewriter industry has seen a resurgence in recent years. Sales of manual typewriters have increased, particularly among younger generations who are discovering these vintage machines for the first time.
Industry experts attribute this renewed interest to several factors:
1. Nostalgia for analog technology in an increasingly digital world
2. The appeal of a distraction-free writing environment
3. The tactile experience of using a mechanical device
4. The aesthetic value of typewriters as decorative items
However, the closure of Cambridge Typewriter Co. highlights a growing challenge in the industry: the scarcity of skilled technicians capable of repairing and maintaining these machines. As stores like Furrier’s close, typewriter enthusiasts may find it increasingly difficult to service their machines.
The store’s closure marks the end of an era for the Boston area, leaving typewriter aficionados to seek alternatives for purchasing and maintaining their beloved machines.
Despite this setback, the typewriter’s enduring appeal suggests that these classic writing instruments may continue to find new admirers in the digital age.
As a hack writer, I find the recent article Why the Typewriter Resurgence Matters for Democracy intriguing, especially its connection to democracy and the digital age. The author, Sheryl Oring, offers a unique insight into how a seemingly outdated technology is making a powerful comeback. Here’s my take on this fascinating trend.
Oring’s observation of the typewriter’s revival is not just about a vintage fad. It coincides with a broader cultural movement towards more intentional and secure communication. In an era dominated by digital screens and instant messaging, the typewriter’s tactile nature provides a refreshing change. As someone who has witnessed the impact of digital media on journalism, I can relate to the public’s growing desire for a more deliberate approach to information sharing.
The article beautifully captures the moment when Katharine Tito, a graphic design student, discovers the allure of the typewriter. The act of slowing down, carefully choosing words, and feeling the weight of each keystroke is a powerful experience. In our fast-paced world, this deliberate process encourages a deeper engagement with thoughts and words, something often lost in the digital realm.
Oring’s “I Wish to Say” project, where people dictate messages to U.S. presidents, highlights the typewriter’s role in fostering trust and connection. In an age of political polarization, this “radical listening” can bridge divides and encourage genuine dialogue. As journalists, we understand the importance of listening and creating spaces for diverse voices to be heard.
The typewriter’s resurgence is part of a larger trend, as young people seek real-world interactions beyond social media. From running groups to reading parties, there’s a renewed appreciation for face-to-face communication. This shift reminds us that, as journalists, we must remain connected to our audiences and communities, ensuring our work is not just about digital clicks but also about meaningful human connections.
The typewriter’s comeback is a fascinating phenomenon, offering valuable lessons for journalists and society at large. It encourages us to slow down, listen deeply, and reconsider our relationship with technology. As we navigate the challenges of the digital age, these lessons can help us strengthen democracy and foster more meaningful connections.
Ruben Flores in his shop, U.S. Office Machines
