Why Writing Journals Are Still Important
Why would someone choose to write with a pen and notebook when the digital age provides more convenient tools? And how would creative professionals (not just writers) benefit from using a journal?
Leather-bound journals carry their own energy. A journal beckons you from a simpler time when privileged thinkers had access to proper writing instruments like papyrus, ink and a feather.
A journal is a place to record the unusual ideas that traverse your mind, whereas a diary is used to capture your innermost thoughts about each day. A journal is more of a companion along your life journey, a sounding board and a place to record the Muse’s messages. Through your own words and those chanted by others, a journal provides you with a constant stream of inspiration.
For thinkers and writers, a filled journal is more precious than money, jewelry or other material possessions. Like a family heirloom or work of art, a filled journal cannot be replaced.
When I stay at a hotel, I always make sure my journal is not stored in my luggage. If someone wants to steal from me, let him take my bags and everything else. They don’t want a used journal filled with my ideas anyway.
Of course, those ideas captured in your journal aren’t really “yours.” They were given to you for a time and it’s up to you to determine which ideas you want to use—in your writing, your work and your life.
Computers serve an invaluable function in writing, communicating and creating. But they can never replace the mysterious quality of a leather-bound journal. At least, I hope they don’t for future writers. The journal has been a vital tool for great thinkers and writers since antiquity.
My journal of choice? The pocket size Moleskine Ruled Notebook. It’s not real leather, but it’s durable, fits in your back pocket and is still large enough to write comfortably. Apparently, Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso and Van Gogh used this moleskin-style journal. It works beautifully.
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