So, I’m not saying things like “Bridgerton” and Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice have influenced my standards at all, but why on earth did society decide to abandon the notion of beautiful, eloquent handwritten letters? I have some questions, people!
But in all seriousness, where did it go? Obviously, with the advancements in technology like the telegraph and eventually phones and email, letters fell out of fashion. It’s so easy to text or DM or whatever (especially if you’re not a phone call person, tag yourself) instead of taking the time to write a letter and wait for your person to receive it. I know it seems kind of cheesy to want something like a letter, but I’m a hopeless romantic. I said what I said.
Think about it, though. Imagine the pure sweetness of someone writing you a letter. Clearly, you’ve been on their mind and taking the time to write a heartfelt and personal letter just for you sounds like the best thing ever. I don’t just mean love letters either. Recently I received a letter from a friend I haven’t seen in years, and it just brought me so much joy for her to take the time to do that. The handwriting, the cute stamp and the picture she included were just the sweetest thing, and I was practically overwhelmed with nostalgia and emotion for an old friend.
But, it does seem like a stretch to say letters are a big deal nowadays. They used to be a huge symbol. A site called Victorian Passage Into Time talks about wax seals and the intentions behind letter writing throughout different time periods, and honestly it just makes my little history- buff- heart so happy. You might have noticed the style of letters in shows like “Bridgerton” (available on Netflix). Wax seals had special meanings based on color, like red for business, blue for passion and pink for congratulations. Styles of seals indicated your family or business. Not to sound like a huge nerd, but it makes letters all the more wholesome when you realize people used to put so much effort into writing them.
All nerdiness aside, write you a letter! I started writing them to my friends just as little pick-me-ups, but maybe it’s time to live out your Edwardian Lady Bridgerton dreams? Maybe you’re a totally hopeless romantic like me. And it’s so easy! I ended up buying this super basic card set and some simple stickers from Target and got to writing. I like to include things like bags of my favorite tea, Polaroids and little drawings in my letters. I love felt-tip pens, but use whatever you like. Sometimes I don’t even mail them, I just hand them out. Sure, I text my friends every day, but a handwritten letter is a physical reminder of my affections. Write a letter to yourself, even! You’re worthy of all the most beautiful letters, even if the words come straight from you. Now’s the time to bring letters back and show the love!