Vintage Vibes
Rediscovering typewriter magic
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They say love finds you when you least expect it, and for me, it arrived in the form of an old classic Olivetti Lettera 32 typewriter. It all started a couple of weeks ago with a conversation with my partner, who shared my affinity for vintage treasures (he is going out with me after all) and the art of writing. Little did I know, he had a surprise in store for me - a beautiful Olivetti, in need of some TLC but brimming with potential. As I laid my eyes on this elegant piece of writing history, I felt a rush of excitement and inspiration.
With its sleek design and nostalgic charm, this cute little typewriter sparked my imagination, igniting a newfound passion for typewriters and the timeless art of crafting words on paper. Already, I find myself envisioning the possibilities - sitting in a busy bookshop or in a comfy corner at my local library, creating personalised journaling prompts and love messages for passers by. Or am I kidding myself?!
It’s in need of a new ribbon, part of its apparatus will have to be welded, the typewriter case could do with a few stitches, and to be honest, it’s going to be a while before it’s in good working order. Regardless of the wait, I’m filled with a sense of purpose and determination.
My mission is clear, to type with ease, to channel my thoughts and emotions onto the page with precision and hopefully grace. I’m going to breathe life back into this wonderful typewriter, hopefully weaving stories and sentiments that resonate with others. My Olivetti is a treasure trove of inspiration waiting to be discovered. And I’d love to share the history of this particular typewriter with you one day. An untold story waiting to be shared, amazingly its made its way across land and ocean to Wales from South Africa.
If you’re a typewriter fan, please connect, there seems to be a few typewriter fans on Substack and I know some of you have kindly shared your typewriter tales with me. I wrote about my new love affair with typewriters a couple of weeks ago Writing in Retro after watching a documentary “California Typewriter” staring Tom Hanks who also has a passion for theses wonderful time machines. The actor also revealed his passion for typewriters and how they’ve inspired his writing, while promoting his debut short story collection Uncommon Type in an article in The Standard newspaper a few years back. And boy do I love a short story!
“The typewriter is a faithful companion, patiently waiting for the writer's next adventure”
Until the next time
Take care and stay safe xx
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I would love to be able to house a collection of typewriters but sadly I don’t have anywhere to put them. There is something very nostalgic about a typewriter. Memories! Great piece BTW!
Oh how much I love this Tanya! The idea of owning and using a vintage typewriter is so enticing 💛 I learned to touch type on my mum’s electric typewriter when I was a child. I daydreamed of being a secretary and spent hours practicing letter combination drills until I could type with my eyes closed! (And I still can 😊)