Shinobu Mitsuoka×Chisako Takashima

Handwriting is a person’s identity. There is no “good” or “poor” handwriting.

Takashima

It occurred to me, listening to the episode about the love letters, that I cannot even remember the last time I wrote a letter. I think more and more people have become like me, but when I receive things from mindful people or from elderly people, I always find a small note enclosed. I do want to do the same….

Mitsuoka

I believe that when one becomes too obsessed with manners, writing becomes a bother, but even a short handwritten note gives an entirely different impression. Writing is not only a simple way of communication, it is a means to express one’s individuality. I hope to encourage more people to appreciate the art of communicating thorough writing.

Takashima

My penmanship is so poor that I feel even more reluctant to write (laughs). I am afraid that people who read my letter would think I was joking. If I wrote an absent note for my children, the teacher may think it was forged (laughs).

Mitsuoka

Handwriting styles are a part of a person’s identity. I would not be too conscious about it (laughs).

Takashima

I have always wished that there were stationery with short messages like “thank you” printed in very light ink so that I could trace it with a pen. That would make it handwritten, but not offending, so I wouldn’t have to feel embarrassed sending letters.

Mitsuoka

Like a calligraphy text book (laughs). Different pens give different impressions of handwriting. For example, fountain pen ink feathers, which has the effect of making writing appear beautiful.

Takashima

I had always believed that a fountain pen was the last item that someone with ugly handwriting like me should use!

Mitsuoka

Not at all. Ball point pens and mechanical pencils reproduce a person’s handwriting precisely. Fountain pens use waterborne ink, which is absorbed into paper beautifully. Also, the pen tip glides more smoothly than other pens. Fountain pens can transform “improper” penmanship into unique and attractive handwriting.

Takashima

I see. I will try it some time.

Mitsuoka

Since most writing paper and notepads are decorated, personal handwriting gives a brighter appearance and blends in better with the design, compared to than textbook letters.