Today the United States observes Thanksgiving. Facebook and Twitter abound with family pictures and lists of blessings. While I’m thankful for these things, I’m also thankful for things of a more literary nature. Things like

Books

Whether they’re medieval illuminated manuscripts, first-edition hardcovers, well-worn paperbacks, or digitized e-books, there’s nothing quite like the printed word. From Dante to Luther to Lewis to Bradbury to Pratchett, I’m thankful for the worlds books open and the ideas they offer.

Paper

Especially high-quality parchment paper. If you haven’t had the joy of writing on paper made specifically for the written word, you’re missing out. Yes, it’s expensive. Some might even say cost-prohibitive. But there’s a time and a place for everything, so splurge just once and see what you’re missing.

Fountain Pens

Do I really need to explain this one?

Candles

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with a good scented candle. My all-time favorite is the Edgar Allen Poe candle offered by Paddywax.It’s simply the perfect candle for relaxing with a good book or perfecting that manuscript. For maximum effectiveness, combine it with

Coffee

Yes, I’m addicted and no, I don’t care. I simply adore love exist on coffee.

 

What are you thankful for?