Hi,
If a literate Chinese man who did not have the conditions to allow him a traditional writing brush and ink, what would he use to write down notes, diary entires, etc., while on the go between the years 1850-1915?
Was the Western "pencil" available in China? If so, how early was it available? What about any optional writing utensils that a Chinese writer might use in lieu of a writing brush?
Any help will be very much appreciated.
Cheers,
Gene Wong.

"Truth uttered before its time is dangerous."

Sorry if this is on an unrelated issue, but where did you get that quote from? Having read all of Mencius I do not seem to recall that quote. Maybe my memory is failing me?

charcoal probably... from a burnt tip of a stick.

Hi,
I've used different signatures on my emails. I change them from time to time. This particular one I think I saw from a list of "presumed" quotes from famous people. As to its authenticity, I'm not sure. Who can be. Whether it was in fact Mencius or someone else, the quote has its own kind of profundity. I just wish I had originated it. I doubt that Mencius would object, at any rate.
Cheers,
Gene.



Hi,
You're probably right. I'm thinking of my characters' using a western pencil because around the time of their travels the pencil is not an unbelievable possibility, although I might well initially have them use a charcoal piece, later acquiring a pencil.
Thanks for the thought.
Sincerely,
Gene.