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The Art of Manliness
The Power of the Notebook — The History and Practice of Thinking on Paper
Feb 18, 2025
Roland Allen, the author of 'The Notebook: A History of Thinking on Paper', delves into the transformative journey of notebooks. He discusses how they evolved from accounting tools to vital creative instruments, used by luminaries like Leonardo da Vinci and Theodore Roosevelt. The conversation highlights the significance of Renaissance zibaldones and commonplace books in personal and intellectual growth. Allen emphasizes the enduring power of handwritten notes in our digital age and shares practical tips for effective journaling and note-taking.
52:19
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Quick takeaways
- Notebooks transitioned from business tools to creative instruments, significantly impacting personal reflection and professional development throughout history.
- Famous figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Theodore Roosevelt exemplified the importance of notebooks for capturing both creativity and financial tracking.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Notebooks
Notebooks have undergone a significant transformation over the centuries, transitioning from basic tools for business to vital instruments for creativity. Early forms of written communication included costly parchment and papyrus, which were cumbersome and not conducive to personal jotting. The introduction of paper in the 1200s in Italy revolutionized note-taking as it provided a more accessible and efficient medium. The worksheet-like wax tablets that had been used previously became outdated, paving the way for the spread of notebooks across Europe, which soon became essential for both artists and entrepreneurs.
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