Intelligence Squared
Page-Turner: A History of the Notebook
Mar 18, 2024
Roland Allen, a publisher and author of "The Notebook: A History of Thinking on Paper," joins Albert Read, a writer and former Managing Director of Condé Nast. They delve into the transformative history of notebooks, from their origins in 1260 Italy to their role in art and business. The conversation highlights how notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci used notebooks for creativity and reflection. They also explore the concept of Zibaldoni and the chaos of ideas and the cultural significance of the iconic Moleskine notebook in shaping modern creativity.
42:54
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Quick takeaways
- The invention of paper notebooks in 1260s Italy revolutionized communication and enabled business growth through reliable record-keeping.
- Notebooks played a crucial role in art development by artists like da Vinci, emphasizing their significance in learning and idea generation.
Deep dives
Origins of Notebook
The podcast delves into the origins of the notebook, tracing it back to Italy in the 1260s when paper notebooks replaced parchment, allowing for reliable record-keeping and business growth. The arrival of paper transformed business practices, enabling detailed bookkeeping and the birth of accountancy through double-entry bookkeeping.
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