It is a genuine shame that handwriting—especially cursive writing—has largely fallen out of use in many areas today. People now tend to type electronically whenever they have something to say. They stare endlessly at glowing screens and repeatedly press mechanical keys. Is this really what writing is meant to be?
What about the conservative tradition of writing by hand, particularly in cursive script? This practice seems to have nearly disappeared, becoming a forgotten art—often admired only by those who encountered it through the handwriting of their grandparents or great-grandparents.
This essay is by no means an instruction manual or commentary on calligraphy. Rather, it is the enthusiastic attempt of a man who loves cursive to sound an appeal in a forest of typed letters produced by mechanical hands.
Handwriting, it seems, has fallen out of fashion along with many everyday practices that require time, skill, and patience—much like other traditional arts that aim to create something beautiful. Admittedly, handwriting is time-consuming, especially when using an elegant cursive script. Yet it is also a personal expression, often reflecting a culture and a moment in time. Why not write with an artistic sensibility and an eye for beauty, if one is so often obliged to take up the pen anyway?
It is no different for us than it was for those before us—a moment to express ourselves on a blank page. Handwriting often travels further than words, leaving an imprint on anyone who encounters it. Not to mention the effect it has on one’s descendants when they later discover an old letter tucked away in a drawer, as I am sure we can all relate to.
‘This writing is not merely an artistic expression—it encapsulates a time now largely lost’
The swirling lines create a masterful, almost enchanting effect for the reader. This writing is not merely an artistic expression—it encapsulates a time now largely lost, something rarely practiced today but still holding value and commanding respect. A true and distinct mark of conservatism in the 21st century. If you want to stand out and give gravitas to your thoughts, one simple way is to write them in cursive.
It should be noted that different periods and regions produced different writing styles, so we are not speaking of a single, coherent system, but rather general trends. Many distinct European scripts developed over time. Among the earliest standardized forms was the Carolingian minuscule, created around the 8th century as an effort at standardization. Prior to that, the Roman script was in widespread use across the Roman Empire. By the 13th century, Gothic, or Blackletter, had emerged as a standard in Western Europe. Later, Humanists developed their own variations, and eventually more localized, national styles began to take hold. This process represents a complex yet beautiful heritage—one that I believe is truly worthy of preservation.
Handwriting can also be seen as an expression of national identity. I experienced this myself at a young age. After learning Hungarian cursive, I later learned American cursive and quickly noticed that the two are quite different in form. Many letters, such as r and p, are written differently, reflecting variations in their historical development. The same is true for most capital letters.
‘Handwriting often travels further than words, leaving an imprint on anyone who encounters it’
As a result, Hungarian cursive differs from American cursive, just as American cursive differs from Dutch—the subtle distinctions serve as markers of national identity. This creates something unique, often beautiful and intriguing. In the past, receiving a letter from someone abroad could often reveal its country of origin. Today, however, many people struggle to read—or even write—these distinct scripts.
Finally, cursive handwriting can be easily tailored to one’s personality and needs, building on the framework of the conventions taught while respecting the principles of writing. This personalized script can reflect individual taste and style. I believe it matters not only what one says, but how one expresses it. The same applies to writing: write well, write beautifully, and perhaps your words will be heard more.
For this reason, a return to flowing cursive should be encouraged—to preserve the beauty, expression, and tradition of the past, in the spirit of conservatism. Let writing once again convey a unique and timeless soul.
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