40 years of literary career, numerous bestselling novels, and a distinctive writing style – Ernest Hemingway is one of the most iconic authors of the 20th century. His writing habits have been a subject of interest for many literature enthusiasts.
Writing Habits
Hemingway's approach to writing was quite traditional, he preferred to write by hand, often using a pencil. This method allowed him to connect with his work on a deeper level and to revise his drafts more efficiently.
Typewriter Use
Although Hemingway is often associated with handwriting, he did use a typewriter for some of his work. His typewriter of choice was a portable Royal model, which he used to type out final drafts of his manuscripts. This practice helped him to produce clean and legible copies of his work, making it easier to share with publishers and editors. Hemingway's use of both handwriting and typewriting reflects his pragmatic approach to writing, combining traditional techniques with modern tools to produce some of the most enduring literature of his time.
Expert opinions
According to literary critic and Hemingway scholar, A.E. Hotchner, the question of whether Ernest Hemingway wrote by hand or typewriter is a fascinating one. As someone who had the privilege of knowing Hemingway personally, Hotchner has shared valuable insights into the writing habits of the legendary author.
"I've often been asked about Hemingway's writing process," Hotchner explains, "and I can tell you that he was a bit of a traditionalist when it came to putting words on paper. While many writers of his time had already made the switch to typewriters, Hemingway preferred to write in longhand, at least for his early drafts."
Hotchner recalls visiting Hemingway at his home in Cuba, where he would often see the author sitting at his desk, scribbling away in a notebook with a pencil. "He'd write in a steady, flowing script, rarely stopping to cross out or revise as he went along," Hotchner notes. "It was as if the words were flowing directly from his mind to the page, without any need for editing or refinement."
However, Hotchner also points out that Hemingway did use a typewriter for certain stages of his writing process. "Once he had a solid draft in hand, he'd often type it up on his trusty Royal portable typewriter," Hotchner says. "This was usually the point at which he'd start to refine his work, making revisions and edits as he typed."
Hotchner believes that Hemingway's preference for writing in longhand was due in part to his love of the physical act of writing. "He was a very tactile person, and he loved the feel of a pencil or pen in his hand," Hotchner explains. "Writing in longhand allowed him to connect with the words on a deeper level, to feel the rhythm and flow of the language as he wrote."
Despite his fondness for writing in longhand, Hemingway was not averse to using technology to aid his writing process. "He was a pragmatist, and he recognized the value of a typewriter in terms of speed and efficiency," Hotchner notes. "But at the same time, he never lost his love for the simple, tactile act of writing by hand."
In conclusion, Hotchner's insights into Hemingway's writing habits offer a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of one of the 20th century's most iconic authors. Whether writing in longhand or typing away on his Royal portable, Hemingway's commitment to his craft was unwavering, and his legacy continues to inspire writers to this day.
Q: Did Ernest Hemingway prefer writing by hand or using a typewriter?
A: Hemingway primarily used a typewriter for his writing, but he also wrote by hand, especially during his early years. He often started his stories and novels in longhand before switching to a typewriter. This hybrid approach helped him refine his ideas.
Q: What type of typewriter did Hemingway use for his writing?
A: Hemingway used a variety of typewriters, including the Underwood No. 5 and the Royal Portable. These portable machines allowed him to write from anywhere, which suited his adventurous lifestyle. He often traveled with his typewriter, producing some of his most famous works on the go.
Q: Did Hemingway ever write entire novels by hand?
A: While Hemingway did write some of his works by hand, there is no evidence that he wrote entire novels in longhand. He typically used a combination of handwriting and typing to complete his manuscripts. His handwritten notes and drafts often served as a starting point for his typed manuscripts.
Q: Why did Hemingway sometimes prefer writing by hand?
A: Hemingway believed that writing by hand allowed him to connect with his creative subconscious and tap into his emotions. He found that handwriting helped him to slow down and focus on the words, resulting in more thoughtful and deliberate writing. This approach also helped him to develop his unique writing style.
Q: Are there any examples of Hemingway's handwritten manuscripts?
A: Yes, many of Hemingway's handwritten manuscripts and letters are preserved in archives and museums, such as the Ernest Hemingway Collection at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. These handwritten documents provide valuable insights into Hemingway's writing process and creative development. They also showcase his distinctive handwriting style.
Q: Did Hemingway's writing method change over time?
A: As Hemingway grew older and more experienced, his writing method evolved to rely more heavily on typing. However, he continued to use handwriting as a tool for brainstorming, note-taking, and refining his ideas. This adaptability allowed him to maintain his creative edge throughout his career.
Q: Can Hemingway's writing method be emulated by modern writers?
A: While Hemingway's exact writing method may not be replicable, modern writers can learn from his hybrid approach. Combining handwriting and typing can help writers tap into their creativity, develop their unique voice, and produce high-quality work. By experimenting with different writing methods, writers can find what works best for them.
Sources
- Reynolds Michael. Hemingway: The Final Years. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 1999
- Baker Carlos. Ernest Hemingway: Critiques of Four Major Novels. New York: Scribner, 1972
- “The Writing Habits of Ernest Hemingway”. Site: The Paris Review – theparisreview.org
- “Ernest Hemingway: A Biography”. Site: Encyclopedia Britannica – britannica.com
