'The Art of Letters' Summary

The Art of Letters, written by Robert Lynd in 1921, is a delightful and insightful book about the lost art of letter writing. Lynd, a renowned essayist and critic, argues that letters are not simply a means of communication, but also a form of art. He writes that "a letter should be a thing of beauty," and he provides helpful tips on how to write letters that are both informative and entertaining.

Lynd begins by discussing the importance of handwriting. He argues that handwriting is a reflection of our personality, and that our letters should be written in our own unique style. He also emphasizes the importance of taking care with our letters. He writes that a well-written letter is a gift, and that we should take the time to choose the right paper and pen, and to write our letters with care.

Lynd then goes on to discuss the different types of letters. He writes about friendly letters, love letters, business letters, and even letters to the editor. He provides helpful tips on how to write each type of letter effectively. For example, he advises that friendly letters should be warm and personal, and that love letters should be passionate and sincere. He also provides tips on how to write business letters that are clear and concise, and letters to the editor that are persuasive and well-argued.

Lynd also includes examples of letters from famous writers and thinkers, such as Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf, and Albert Einstein. These letters show the power of the letter to convey emotion, share ideas, and connect with others. For example, Dickens' letters to his children are full of love and humor, while Woolf's letters to her friends are insightful and thought-provoking. Einstein's letters to his son are full of wisdom and compassion.

Lynd's book is a timely reminder of the importance of the handwritten letter in a time when we are constantly bombarded with electronic messages. Emails and text messages are convenient, but they lack the personal touch of a handwritten letter. Lynd's book inspires us to slow down, take the time to write a letter, and share our thoughts and feelings with the people we care about.

The Art of Letters is a charming and insightful book that will make you want to pick up a pen and start writing letters again. It is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty and power of the handwritten word.