Mac's Backs hosts April 7 type-in

Typewriters. Maybe you have one you never use. Would you like to fix it up? Maybe you have one you use all the time. Would you like to meet other typewriter enthusiasts? If so, join them at Mac’s Backs-Books on Coventry on April 7, 3–6 p.m., for a type-in.

A type-in is a celebration of these wonderful machines, where aficionados can connect to others who are interested in typewriters without the aid of social media or algorithms.

In our hectic modern world, with the Internet and apps and social media, it’s easy to get lost in the interference. Using a typewriter allows one to rebel against this mode of living and disconnect from the digital world. A typewriter is a creative tool that does not connect to the Internet and runs solely on the power of its operator. It does not have any apps. There are no comment sections. And no emojis. It’s just the writer and the writing, which opens up a whole new world of creative and intellectual spirit. Unplugging and tapping into the “typosphere” can open all sorts of possibilities.

(I became fascinated with typewriters in high school and was primarily interested in using rather than collecting them. I found a derelict Smith & Corona with a completely shot ribbon that I used to write stories. In college and after, I fell into using my laptop, but lately have had a sneaking suspicion of most things digital. I was recently gifted a typewriter that, with a new ribbon, was in perfect working condition. I now use it everyday.)

Share your enthusiasm for these machines and meet like-minded people at the type-in. Manual typewriters will be available for use, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own. There will be a speed typing contest and writing games. Registration is not required, and stationery and paper will be provided.  

Unplug for an afternoon and jam on a typewriter instead. The typosphere is waiting.