National Letter Writing Day

Young person sitting at a desk, surrounded by colorful stationery and pens, writing a heartfelt letter with a smile.. — National letter writing day illustration

Welcome to the marvelous world of National Letter Writing Day! This delightful occasion sparks a resurgence in the art of handwritten correspondence. Whether you're penning a heartfelt love letter or sending a cheerful note to a friend, this special day encourages us to slow down, put pen to paper, and savor the joy of connection through the written word.

When is Letter Writing Day?

It's national letter writing day on the 7th December.

The Origin Story of National Letter Writing Day

While the exact origins of National Letter Writing Day are shrouded in mystery, one thing is for certain: people love receiving a handwritten letter in their mailbox. In this age of emails and text messages, there's something incredibly enchanting about discovering a personal letter amidst the usual bills and junk mail.

This festive occasion serves as a gentle reminder to embrace the nostalgia of letter writing. It encourages us to dedicate a bit of our precious time to craft a heartfelt message using our favorite pen, choice stationery, and maybe even a spritz of extra-special perfume or cologne for added flair. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned wordsmith, National Letter Writing Day is the perfect opportunity to sprinkle a bit of old-world charm into the lives of your loved ones.

How to Celebrate National Letter Writing Day

Now that you're fully captivated by the magic of letter writing, you're probably itching to join in on the celebration. Fear not, for we have some enchanting ideas to inspire your letter-writing endeavors:

Write a love letter to your significant other and leave it in their favorite coffee mug as a surprise.
Gather your friends for a cozy letter-writing party, complete with fancy writing utensils, decorative paper, and delicious snacks.
Send a thoughtful letter to a coworker, expressing appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
Pen a heartfelt letter to a long-lost friend or distant relative, rekindling the bond that time and distance may have weakened.
Write a letter to your future self, capturing your hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Store it away and open it years down the road for a delightful walk down memory lane.

Fun Fact About National Letter Writing Day

Did you know that the world's largest postal network, the United States Postal Service, handles over 500 million pieces of mail each day? That's a whole lot of letters and packages traversing the country to brighten people's lives!

History behind the term 'Letter Writing'

15th century

The Birth of Letter Writing

Letter writing as a method of communication emerged in the 15th century with the development of paper made from wood pulp. Prior to this, parchment or vellum made from animal skin was used, making writing materials expensive and inaccessible to most people. The introduction of paper revolutionized written communication and sparked the widespread practice of letter writing.

1770s

The Age of Enlightenment and Epistolary Style

During the 18th century, the Age of Enlightenment brought about a renewed emphasis on reason, intellect, and individuality. This intellectual movement greatly influenced letter writing, as it encouraged the use of epistolary style—a literary form in which letters are written as a means of expression. People exchanged letters not only for practical reasons but also as a form of personal and intellectual conversation.

19th century

Postal Service Expansions

The 19th century witnessed significant advancements in postal services around the world. The construction of railways, the introduction of postage stamps, and the establishment of reliable international mail systems made letter writing more convenient and widespread. People were able to send and receive letters more efficiently, fostering connections across vast distances and promoting cultural exchange.

20th century

Rise of Correspondence Culture

The 20th century saw the rise of correspondence culture, particularly through the development of airmail and the telephone. Airmail allowed for letters to be delivered quickly over long distances, making international communication more accessible. However, with the advent of telephones and later, email, the popularity of traditional letter writing started to decline, marking a shift towards more instantaneous modes of communication.

21st century

Revival of Letter Writing

In the 21st century, there has been a resurgence of interest in letter writing. Despite the prevalence of digital communication, many individuals now appreciate the personal touch, thoughtfulness, and tactile experience of receiving a handwritten letter. Letter writing has become a popular hobby, providing a way to slow down in our fast-paced society and create meaningful connections.