The Enduring Charm of Typewriters: A Loving Memoir
Our memories often form around the most unexpected and humble tools, and for me, that tool is the typewriter. Growing up, it was my first poetry that I wrote on an old school typewriter, a simple machine that felt so modern and official. It was a gateway to a world where writing wasn't just about jotting down thoughts but about creating something special and lasting. The beauty of the typewriter lay in its simplicity and the mechanical feedback it provided while typing.
My Nostalgic Memories
The most cherished memory associated with my typewriter is when my wife sat on the manual model and demanded a unique form of attention as my mistress indulged her desires. While this may sound like a scene straight out of a novel, it was a moment in time when life was truly amazing. The typewriter was more than just a tool; it was a symbol of passion and creativity.
From Mechanical Hiccups to Electrics
Early experiences with purely mechanical typewriters were fraught with challenges. Unfamiliarity with proper typing technique and weak fingers made these machines a challenge to use. However, the advent of electric typewriters like the IBM Selectric II changed everything. These machines allowed for much better performance and the opportunity to learn touch typing, which is a highly beneficial skill.
My grandmother played a significant role in my typewriter journey. Upon turning 18, she offered me the contents of a trust fund, allowing me to choose how to spend the money. Initially, I declined because of my poor money management skills. However, a yearning for a typewriter that was both capable and within my budget led me to make a decision. The Brother CE-70 caught my eye—a daisywheel machine that supported proportional spacing and right margin justification. At 999 dollars, I secured a machine that would last for thirty days due to an early super-capacitor that charged almost instantly upon power restoration.
Restoration and Memories
The Brother CE-70 became more than just a writing tool; it became a companion through various temporary assignments. I put countless keystrokes through it, observing how each character was accurately printed. Over the years, it went through at least three replacement heads, each one preserving the machine's legacy. I still have the original typewriter and a bag of rubber bushings, though I haven't found enough technical information to open the head without damaging it. My intention is to duplicate those bushings in metal, ensuring the machine's continued functionality.
Alongside the CE-70, I also refurbished a Selectric II, which I now have the full service manual for. While parts may be challenging to find, the joy of tinkering with such a machine is unparalleled. Each keystroke elicits a sense of satisfaction, hearing the thump of the character hitting the paper. This experience is a cherished memory and a testament to the enduring charm of vintage technology.
While restoration of the typewriter remains a challenge, the machine holds a special place in my heart as a gift from my grandmother. It is more than just a piece of equipment—it is a symbol of her legacy and the enduring charm of typewriters. The world has moved on from these machines, but for me, they will always hold a special place in my memory.