From Reusable Ink to Calligraphic Art: A Journey Through My Handwriting

My journey through penmanship has been a series of transformations, marked by the ever-evolving demands of academia and personal development. From the smooth and enjoyable style I enjoyed up until high school to the deteriorated and laborious handwriting I carried into adulthood, each stage of my life has shaped the way I write.

High School and Beyond: A Turning Point

Up until high school, my handwriting was a reflection of my love for writing. I enjoyed the act of putting words onto paper, and my penmanship was both neat and legible. However, high school changed everything. Our school's strict policy against the use of computers forced us to write everything by hand. This was particularly challenging for tasks such as writing 10-page research papers, which required multiple revisions and tight deadlines. The hardships of this period were further compounded by the sheer volume of homework expected of us, leading to extended periods of late-night writing sessions.

Challenges and Consequences

One of the most daunting tasks was the assignment to write 10-page research papers, with at least two rough drafts to be submitted. The time limit of only four days to complete such a massive project was daunting. The load only increased with the general homework, which was overwhelming, especially for those who did not have the benefit of school sports teams to lighten the burden. Students typically spent long hours writing and revising their work, often staying up until midnight or later, just to meet the deadlines.

By the end of high school, my physical health began to suffer. I developed severe wrist problems, and my handwriting had deteriorated to the point where it was barely legible. Despite this, I did not fully recover from this experience, and to this day, my signature remains a testament to the impact of these years. Even my thank-you notes are sometimes legible due to my laborious cursive writing.

The Evolution of My Handwriting

The changes in my handwriting are not just physical but also stylistic. Growing up, I never studied cursive writing formally. As a result, my handwriting varies greatly, ranging from careful printing to personal shorthand printing, and even laborious cursive. For instance, my handwriting in 2012 is a mix of neat printing and cursive, while in 2016, it evolved into a more complex style, as seen in the Serbian Cyrillic example provided.

Retaining Clarity and Legibility

I have kept essays written when I was 14 and 15, and even those show clear handwriting and few spelling mistakes. The grammar and style were still developing, but the clarity and readability of the writing are evident. However, my handwriting has evolved to a stage where it is much clearer and easier to read, both by myself and others. I now use a ballpoint pen most of the time and write with more care and precision.

While my handwriting may not have changed in terms of its physical aesthetics, my ability to write has certainly improved. This is a testament to the enduring impact of these experiences and the way they have shaped me as a writer and an individual. My journey through penmanship is a tale of resilience and the continuous evolution of my skills.