I’m working through The Artist’s Way with a group of friends, and we are discussing the chapter that begs the question “Why don’t you treat yourself to some creative luxuries?” I had to ask myself why I haven’t ever even purchased a nice writing pen. I am a writer! I haven’t purchased a writing software. I’ve only taken one writing class. And forget other creative materials. I have none. Well, I did buy some wooden wick candle-making supplies last year but only because I got tired of paying for candles. It was hardly a creative splurge.
This morning I was writing my Morning Pages, and my cheap ass pen ran out of ink again. I like these gel pens, but I buy the disposable ones that run out of ink after about three days of writing. I hate the waste and the plastic that ends up in the landfill. I’ve always thought buying a nice pen would be wildly expensive, and I’d probably lose it anyway. But after the discussion this week about my not investing in my creativity, I got to thinking that I should buy a nice pen.
I was a bit shocked when I saw a $950 pen. Whoa! Now that would be an extravagance.
It was beautiful but since I don’t even know what kind of pen I like, I thought I might start a little smaller. Cross has a 55% discount on their already sale-priced outlet pens so I decided on a 2019 Year of the Pig Townsend Rollerball pen. My birthday is in the Year of the Ox as is 2021. So it’s not on sale right now. If I really like this pen maybe I’ll splurge at some point and get the Ox model. And, hey, I got a $300 pen for $100. Yes, it’s a luxury when I could buy 24 for $7.99 at Staples, but it hardly will break the bank.
So, now when I write my Morning Pages, I’ll have a nice pen that feels good in my hand. Maybe I’ll want to write more. If I start writing more, I’ll need to be more comfortable. That could lead me to setting up a real desk somewhere in my home. If I set up a desk, I’ll need a writing software such as Scrivener to organize my thoughts. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll take some writing courses. Right now, I think I’ll be happy with myself for splurging on a nice pen. It could literally lead me anywhere, one word at a time.
I have enjoyed fountain pens! I bought some on eBay from China. It’s been kind of cool to play with them without spending a lot. I’ve upgraded a few to cross and even a waterman. I even played with calligraphy. Kind of a splurge, and fun too!
Awesome! I could use a little fun.
Rock on!
I’ve enjoyed fountain pens. I started out with a few from China on eBay.
I’ve upgraded to a couple of cross and even a Waterman. I didn’t go crazy but have enjoyed slowing down and letting the words flow as I journal.
I even dabble a little with Caligraphy. It’s been fun and creative.
I never even thought of a “creative luxury.” Next time I come across something such as this, I will definitely consider splurging. And I’ll have to check out “The Artist’s Way” as well. Thanks for the ideas!
The Artists Way is life-changing. It’s great to go through with a group.
You so deserve a great pen! I’m happy to hear you bought yourself one 🙂
Best wishes for 2021, G 🙂
Thank you! Happy New Year to you too. Thanks for being a loyal reader of my rambling thoughts.
I HAVE that Townsend Year of the Pig pen! I love the weight of it and the circumference and it always makes me smile. Good on you!
Haha. How cool.