Reviving penmanship connects us to history and human touch.
Writing by hand enhances cognitive functions and personal connections.
Deep dives
Peloton Offers Versatile Options for Workouts
Peloton provides flexibility in workout durations, whether it's a 20-minute scenic hike or a quick 10-minute power walk. Beyond bikes, Peloton offers a treadmill that amplifies motivation for movement. The Peloton Tread features engaging boot camp workouts combining running and dumbbell exercises, along with a leaderboard feature for added motivation. New members can explore Peloton Tread risk-free with a 30-day home trial.
Michael Sol Revitalizes the Art of Penmanship
Michael Sol, a master penman, revives the lost art of penmanship by tracing its historical roots back to specialized handwriting training schools. These schools focused on teaching adults intricate handwriting skills for professional and decorative purposes. Graduates were honored with gold seals for exemplary work, signifying mastery in penmanship. Sol's initiative led to a certification program for individuals to attain the prestigious title of Master Penman, reigniting interest in this traditional skill.
Evolution from Spencerian to Palmer Handwriting Methods
Spencerian script dominated American handwriting until the 1960s when Austin Norman Palmer introduced the efficient Palmer Method writing system. Palmer's approach emphasized speed and efficiency, reflecting the industrial era's ethos. The method prioritized whole arm movement for quick writing, setting the standard for American handwriting until simplified styles emerged in the 1970s. In modern times, a resurgence in interest for traditional penmanship highlights the enduring value of well-crafted handwriting.
Benefits and Importance of Handwriting Skills
Handwriting offers a uniquely human connection to communication, engaging cognitive thought and memory retention. The emotional aspect of personal handwriting enhances social correspondence and conveys individuality and care. Writing by hand fosters grammar and language skills, improves posture, and activates cognitive brain functions. Michael Sol advocates for the revival of quality penmanship, emphasizing its intrinsic value for personal expression and meaningful communication.
In the 21st century, most of our written communication is done through typing on a computer or tapping digital buttons on a smartphone screen. But my guest today argues that we can increase our sense of humanity and our connection to the physical world and to other people by rediscovering the lost art of putting a real pen to real paper.
His name is Michael Sull. He’s a master penman, penmanship instructor, and the author of several penmanship books. Today on the podcast, I talk to Michael about what it takes to become a master penman and what exactly a master penman does for a living. Michael then takes us on a tour of the history of cursive handwriting, including insights into how culture has influenced handwriting styles throughout the ages and why penmanship has declined in the modern day. Michael then makes a case for why people should start writing in cursive again, how to get started with improving your handwriting, and why there’s nothing like getting a handwritten note in the mail.
