Journal

Back in December 2019 I wrote about my requirements for a pocket notebook or journal. They are very specific. This is the link: Overhearing.

I was lucky enough to have found a small firm that supplied them but they have now gone out of business. One of those key requirements was space in the spine to slip in a pen.

If it wasn’t for the fact that Moleskine notebooks or journals do not have that space then they would be my favourite notebook or journal.

Moleskine and mine

That’s twice I’ve used notebook or journal. Is there a difference? According to one definition I found a journal is actually a form of notebook. Another is that journals are typically lined with a strap, whereas notebooks can be spiral-bound. Moleskines have a strap.

I got the following from Tanner Bates, a British company that sells them:

Behind the Cover: The Fascinating Historical Tale of Moleskine Journals
"Who doesn't love the sensation of opening a fresh, untouched Moleskine notebook? For dreamers, thinkers, planners, and creators, it's one of life's simple pleasures. This iconic brand's hallmark black notebook has played a vital role in its history, contributing significantly to its legendary status. However, the story of Moleskine goes far beyond its staple product, weaving an intricate tale of heritage, creativity, and global appeal.

Origins: From Parisian Studios to the Hands of Legends
The history of Moleskine journals begins in the 19th-century streets of Paris, known for their artistic vibrancy and intellectual prowess. Pocket-sized notebooks or 'carnets', bound with leather or oilskin, were sold by local stationers. These notebooks found their way into the hands of legendary artists and authors like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Hemingway, becoming their trusted companions for jotting down thoughts, sketches, and ideas.

The genesis of the Moleskine name can be attributed to British writer and notebook aficionado Bruce Chatwin. In his 1987 book, 'The Songlines', Chatwin fondly described his 'Paris' notebooks as 'carnets Moleskines', with 'Moleskine' referring to the black oilcloth binding.

In 1994, Maria Sebregondi, working with the Italian design company Modo & Modo, was tasked with creating products for a new generation of travellers eager to explore the post-Cold War era's newfound freedom. She proposed recreating the beloved notebooks she had bought in Paris in the early '80s. Thus, the Moleskine we know today was born. The name 'Moleskine', with its French origins and associations with heritage, utility and urban poetry, was a perfect fit. It was trademarked in 1996, with the first notebooks produced the following year."

And if that wasn’t enough, here is the Moleskine Manifesto:
"At Moleskine we believe in the timeless power of handwriting as an essential expression of human civilization, a powerful act to unleash human genius and foster the development and sharing of literacy and knowledge. In a fast-paced technological era, we proudly celebrate the artistry of the human touch; the enduring pleasure of putting pen to paper to unleash your unique voice. 

We celebrate the solemn, thoughtful and meditative gesture of the pen gliding across a blank page; the romance of crafting a personal story to record a lifelong memory and leave a distinguishing mark in all its unique beauty. Handwriting is both universal and deeply personal. It’s a thoughtful way to express your true self and connect to others in a very intimate yet universally accessible way. Put pen to paper, and unleash your unique voice."

the Moleskine range

If only they had that space for a pen.

Ages ago I wrote this poem directly onto the pages of my Moleskine. Very rare for that to happen.

Benches (Llandudno)

Strolling through the gardens
It was easy to pick these words
Pressing them into my journal
While no one was looking

“In memory of my husband
Sit and enjoy the view
As John and I did for fifty years”
Every bench forcing me to stop

“Leslie John Hadlington”
Jealous of them and those they knew
“Rest awhile, enjoy the view
As we always used to do”

Though some haven’t made it back
“In quiet thoughts I live again
The days that used to be”
The letters crumbling in my hand

First published in Borderlines in January, 2003

Thanks for reading, Terry Q.