Mussoorie, July 24: For literary icon Ruskin Bond, the act of writing by hand remains an irreplaceable experience—something neither the tap of a typewriter nor the glow of a laptop screen can replicate.
At 84, Bond continues to pen thousands of words each morning with ease, a testament to his lifelong love affair with pen and paper.
Handwriting: A Deeply Personal Connection
In his latest book “Stumbling Through Life“, the celebrated author reflects on the tactile joy of writing longhand, calling it both mentally and physically gratifying. “There’s a certain intimacy in putting pen to paper,” Bond notes, “a connection that goes beyond words—the feel of the paper, the flow of ink, the movement of the hand in sync with the mind.”
This deep-rooted practice, he says, adds a sensuous rhythm to his writing that digital tools simply cannot match.
The Pen is Mightier—But Not Every Pen
Though often gifted fountain pens—favoured by literary greats like Tagore, Dickens, and Premchand—Bond confesses to finding them more troublesome than romantic. Known for his humorous candour, the author admits to being too clumsy for their upkeep. “I can’t seem to fill or empty one without getting ink all over my hands, clothes—or even someone else’s dupatta by mistake,” he recalls with a laugh.
Instead, it’s the humble ballpoint pen that wins his loyalty. “It’s fuss-free, mess-free, and disposable—just perfect,” he quips.
A Life Devoted to Writing
Despite growing up with lessons in shorthand and typewriting, Bond reveals those tools quickly became outdated. Today, even his great-grandson’s laptop seems on the verge of obsolescence, he jokes. Yet his own handwriting remains crisp and steady—a result of decades of consistent practice.
Living in the quiet hills of Landour near Mussoorie, Bond continues his literary journey, maintaining a disciplined routine and the enduring charm that has made him one of India’s most beloved writers.
About the Book
Published by Rupa Publications, “Stumbling Through Life” is a rich collection of essays and reflections—many of them previously unpublished. The anthology offers readers a closer look into Bond’s personal anecdotes, philosophies, and the quirks that have defined his remarkable literary path spanning over six decades since his award-winning debut “The Room on the Roof.” (With inputs from DD News)
