A Tribute to Timeless Typewriters: Echoes of the Past
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Chapter 1: The Allure of Vintage Machines
As a devoted enthusiast of all things vintage—be it weathered, rusty, or simply ancient—I constantly seek out forgotten treasures and engage with the stories of those who have witnessed the passage of time.
While browsing the internet for typewriters, an unexpected discovery led me to Mr. Rama, a fascinating gentleman in his seventies who runs a workshop that feels like a relic itself. Initially, my call went unanswered, but persistence paid off when he eventually picked up. His initial surprise turned to delight when I expressed my enthusiasm for typewriters, and he eagerly invited me to his shop that very day. When life presents such an opportunity, it’s hard to decline.
Upon arrival, I anticipated a sign to guide me, but instead found myself wandering a few blocks before finally spotting him among his cherished machines. He waved warmly, clearly anticipating my visit.
Mr. Rama’s Workshop: A Journey Through Time
As I stepped through the rusty iron gate, I was transported into another realm. The world outside seemed to fade into a monochrome backdrop, with only the sepia streetlights illuminating my path. Mr. Rama's youthful enthusiasm was infectious as he showed me a typewriter he was currently restoring—a vintage Italian model from the 1950s, still in use by a family today. The thought of its keys being clicked in the present day filled me with nostalgia.
He then introduced me to various Indian brands like Godrej and Remington, but his eyes truly lit up when he retrieved a Royal typewriter from the 1940s—a rare gem that seemed to sigh with memories of the past. He invited me to type on it, and the delightful sound of the keys felt like music, especially the charming chime that signaled a line change.
Next, he showcased an Olympia typewriter, meticulously cared for and exuding elegance. Mr. Rama’s passion for these machines was evident, as he spoke of their history and the care they required.
As the skies darkened with impending rain, I prepared to leave, but Mr. Rama’s curiosity about my background drew me back for tea and conversation. He recounted how his father established the shop in Bangalore in 1943, selling both imported and local typewriters. The business flourished until the advent of computers forced the closure of several branches, with the last remaining shop shutting down during the pandemic. Now, he and his brother operate from a garage at home.
Understanding Mr. Rama's deep-seated passion for typewriters, I asked him why he dedicated his life to them. After a thoughtful pause, he shared how he felt an inexplicable connection with these machines, which, despite being inanimate, seemed to possess a soul of their own. He showed me a wall clock that had been keeping time for a century, a symbol of the timelessness he cherished.
The rain had ceased, and I was reluctant to keep him from his work. I posed one final question: what would become of these typewriters after he and his brother were gone? His expression turned contemplative as he acknowledged the scarcity of individuals knowledgeable about these machines. He expressed sorrow at the thought of their legacy fading, yet he vowed to continue his work until his last breath.
As I bid farewell, a beam of sunlight illuminated the Royal typewriter as Mr. Rama returned it to its rightful place on the shelf. It seemed to await the return of words—permanently etched on paper, untouched by time.
In the chaos of the city, my thoughts lingered on the typewriters and the memories they held. I pondered the lives of those who once cherished them and the stories that remained unspoken, hidden in distant corners of the world.
Visiting Mr. Rama's workshop felt like stepping into a time machine, where every conversation and every typewriter told a story. The two hours spent with this remarkable man were among the most profound experiences of my life.
In the end, we are all stories waiting to be told.
Snap. Click. Clack.
Somsubhra Banerjee, 2023
Chapter 2: Still Standing: The Enduring Typewriter
In a world dominated by modern technology, typewriters hold a special place. This chapter explores the resilience of these vintage machines.
The first video, titled 'Still standing': How the typewriter is still surviving in St. Louis, delves into the ongoing relevance of typewriters in today's world, highlighting their unique charm and the passion of those who continue to cherish them.
The second video, How to Use, Insert Paper & Type on Williams Typewriter, provides a practical demonstration of using a typewriter, showcasing its mechanics and the joy of typing on these classic machines.