In an era dominated by screens and digital noise, a surprising number of young people are seeking refuge in an old-school technology: the typewriter.
These vintage machines offer a creative escape from the relentless distractions of computers and the internet.
This trend underscores a significant generational shift towards valuing what typewriters lack compared to modern technology: distractions, constant notifications, and the endless rabbit hole of online content.
The revival of typewriters among the youth is personified by Max Johnson, a high school student who brought his grandfather’s 1964 Smith Corona typewriter to school.
Initially a novelty, Max’s typewriter quickly caught the attention of his classmates.
Amidst the curiosity, Max found appreciation for the typewriter’s singular focus, which is particularly beneficial for someone like him, managing ADHD.
Without the lure of social media or instant messaging, Max can immerse himself in his thoughts and writing without interruptions.
The interest in typewriters is not just a fleeting curiosity but a growing trend.
The Mesa Typewriter Exchange, a store that has been operating since 1947 and is now managed by Bill Wall, reflects this shift.
Bill notes that a significant portion of his customers are under 30.
Many of these young enthusiasts are creative, homeschooled, and possess high IQs.
The store is bustling with over 20 typewriters waiting to be repaired, a clear indicator of the rising demand for these nostalgic devices.
Events celebrating typewriters are also on the rise.
Twenty-one-year-old Jeremiah Buckovski recently organized a “type-in” event at the Chandler Library.
These gatherings attract young people who express a deep love for the analog nature of typewriters.
They are drawn to the historical significance and the unique sensory experiences that typewriters provide—the rhythmic clacking of keys, the tactile resistance of pressing each letter, and even the distinctive smell of the ink ribbon.
For both collectors and first-time users, typewriters offer a permanence and tactile engagement that digital devices cannot match.
Max Johnson uses his typewriter daily at school for special projects and personal correspondence.
The tangible nature of typewritten text makes every word feel more significant, fostering a careful thought process and a commitment to one’s words.
Unlike the ease of deleting and rewriting in digital formats, typewritten text demands intention and precision.
Max’s dedication to his typewriter is evident in his unique uses for it.
He has typed thoughtful letters to a local legislator and heartfelt messages to his girlfriend.
These actions highlight the irreplaceable nature of typewritten communication, where each keystroke is deliberate and each letter carries a weight that emails or texts often lack.
The physical act of typing and the permanence of the output create a lasting impression that resonates deeply with both the writer and the recipient.
The cost of refurbished manual typewriters varies widely, ranging from under $100 to $1000, making them accessible to a broad audience.
This affordability ensures that more young people can experience the charm and utility of these machines.
Whether it’s an affordable starter typewriter or a high-end collector’s item, there’s a typewriter for every budget, contributing to the widespread resurgence of interest in these vintage devices.
The resurgence of typewriters among young people signifies a yearning for simplicity, focus, and a tangible connection to history in a digital age.
It’s a pushback against the ephemeral nature of digital content and a move towards something more grounded and enduring.
This trend reflects a broader desire to slow down and engage more deeply with one’s thoughts and surroundings, fostering a sense of mindfulness and presence that is often lost in the digital shuffle.
As Max Johnson and others like him continue to embrace typewriters, they are not only reviving an old technology but also rediscovering the joys of analog creativity.
In a world where instant gratification is the norm, the deliberate, thoughtful process of typing on a typewriter offers a refreshing alternative.
Check out the full story of the typewriter rebellion in the video below!
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