A Bramah Pen

Summary of the Article:

The article begins with a recounting of   [Dr. Iain Brown's lecture] at the National Library of Scotland on November 5th, 2003, which focused on Sir Walter Scott. Dr. Brown’s talk, rich with humour and scholarship, included a reminder of the famous occasion when Scott had to shoot a crow to obtain a pen-feather to fashion a writing tool. The lecture also referenced a portrait of Scott by Sir John Watson Gordon showing Scott at his desk with a Bramah pen.

Inspired by the lecture, the author describes her visit to Scott's residence at 39 North Castle Street in Edinburgh [photos]. The experience unfolds serendipitously when a conversation with a railway booking clerk leads her to explore Scott's home, where she is given a private tour of the study, garden, and basement. During the tour, the author reflects on Scott’s writing process and diligence, particularly how he managed to write the last two volumes of Waverley in just a few short weeks.

In addition to descriptions of the physical layout of Scott’s residence, the article also includes a touching anecdote about Scott’s bull-terrier, Camp, who was buried in the garden. The garden itself is described in detail, along with the connection to the famous portrait of Scott.

The piece concludes by linking a Bramah pen to the author’s access to Scott’s home. A chance remark about the pen opens the door to this exploration of Scott’s life and work.

Interesting Points:

1. The Bramah Pen Connection: The mention of the Bramah pen as a tool of choice for Scott sparks a series of events that ultimately allow the author to visit Scott's home. This demonstrates how an item associated with Scott can serve as a gateway to learning more about his life.
2. Scott's Writing Process: The anecdote about Scott’s tireless work ethic, writing the final volumes of Waverley in a few weeks, provides insight into his determination and creativity. The portrayal of the hand, which continually wrote pages through the night, adds a personal touch to Scott’s legacy of literary dedication.
3. Camp’s Burial: The inclusion of Camp, Scott’s beloved dog, buried in the garden adds a human and emotional element to the piece. It highlights the personal side of Scott's life, blending his literary achievements with his deep affection for his family and pets.
4. The Architecture of Scott’s Home: The descriptions of the study and garden offer readers a visual connection to the physical spaces where Scott worked. It’s fascinating to see how the environment influenced his creativity and daily life.

This essay cleverly blends history, personal narrative, and literary scholarship, making the reader appreciate both Scott’s work and his personal environment. It shows how a seemingly mundane object, like a pen, can spark a journey into the past.