Top 5! Fountain Pens for Dark Academia!

[@arlenealennox3136]

Dark Academia…interesting. As a retired academic librarian it seems up my alley. I would choose my amber Pilot Custom 823, which is always inked with De Atramentis Documennf Sepia Brown.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello! Thanks! It does sound perfect for you and your choice of pen is excellent. I’m having some regrets in not choosing the 823! All the best.

[@JamesLFilms]

It’s fun to see people join the trends of something you’ve loved all your life. You can take them under your wing and show them a larger world.

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes, exactly! That's how I heard about it; a young person said to me, "Wow, you are so Dark Academia." I had to know what that was!

[@richardzak2140]

Hello HJ. Another fine video. Love it when you take field trips to unique places. You have to feel good that more and more people are taking interest in higher learning, especially the younger generation. Life is all around us and there are so many things to learn out in the world. Interesting things. The more we experience, the more we grow and the richer we become. Great job.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Richard! I appreciate that very much!

[@ChrisSaenz13]

This was so much fun! And I admire so much your footage and editing skills!!!!! Also, I really like reading favorite books of people with channels I enjoy ... so I'm currently reading The Secret History by Donna Tartt ... when I looked it up and found out it was set in my home state of Vermont I just had to read it. I'm enjoying it a lot! She's a fantastic writer! Thinking of my fountain pens I think of my little Montblanc 145 Meisterstuck Classique (gifted to me by a viewer 5 years ago)- it's a small pen - classic looking with a springy little nib and fits into the dark academia atmosphere real well I think perfectly! For some reason I'm also thinking of the Jinhao Dragon fountain pens -- I don't have one - I think they are really mysterious and might fit in as well but probably way too heavy for me. I've always meant to try one! Another one from my own collection is my vintage Sheaffer Balance oversized that belonged to the man who was planning to be my grandfather ... or at least he was engaged to my grandmother when he died in an airplane crash ... and my grandfather (his younger brother) eventually married my grandmother. Nothing untoward there ... they had their first child, my Dad, 3 years later, but all that mystique and thinking about my Uncle who might have been my grandfather ... and his name was printed on the pen and pencil set. The pen isn't working -- the vac filling system needs repair but I write with it by dipping the nib sometimes. Your footage in this video makes me miss the wood beautiful libraries in Vermont. Two in particular -- the one in St. Johnsbury, VT and the one in Derby Line on the border (sits on both USA and Canada). Those libraries are like stepping back in time. I have been meaning to learn to do wax seals too. I have a ladies Waterman 52 pocket/pen meant to be worn on a chain and it is brown very vintage (1920s) it has a soft #2 nib ... somehow I have messed up the lever fill on that pen but it's such a great writer I plan to get it fixed. Fun stuff! It's harder to find atmospheres (like you showed) here in South Texas where it's much more modern and beachy but my husband and I love to create such spots in our home with older furnishings and things!!!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much for the kind words, Chris! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. I loved reading about your family history and it relates to what I was saying about vintage pens in the video. Amazing stories. I love your choices too. The Dragon pen would be interesting. I don’t have it either and for the same reason. Maybe one day. I also have a 52 1/2. Amazing pen and a stunning nib. Thanks!

[@peterpuleo2904]

My grandfather was biologically my grand uncle because he married my grandmother after her husband, who was his brother, died at age about 35. So my father's stepfather was biologically his uncle. These things were more common in past generations.

[@judyanderson1329]

I have two Jinhao Dragon pens. One with a red background and one with a purple background. Purple is my favourite colour! Goulet pens carry the red dragon pen. Sally at Esy buy on Etsy also sells them and has different colours. They are quite solid and heavy!

[@georgeluke1883]

Fantastic job Hemingway! I love books! I have a couple thousand books in my study. I could just about live there with my books and my fountain pens. You gave some excellent choices. I have all but the Churchill, and I substitute the 149 with my 146 or 145 Chopin. Love the classical music too! I must go visit that library sometime! Anyway, I'm rambling on, so thanks for the great video!

[@HemingwayJones]

Ramble away, George! I certainly do. Thanks so much! The 146 is an excellent pen. I don't have the Chopin, but I have seen it! They definitely work. Thanks so much for watching.

[@williamforester9848]

This is in my opinion your best video. Great pen selections .Bill F.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Bill! It is one of my favorites. It was fun to make.

[@amyalphabet722]

oh my, this was wonderful, it must have been so enjoyable to create this video. The b-roll of books, libraries, reading rooms were drool-worthy!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, Amy! I am so glad that you enjoyed it!

[@alvinscott1331]

This was the perfect video to watch (listen to) while preparing to write this evenings journal entry. I was surprised by the inclusion of the TWSBI Eco. I feel like clear body with the bright colorful trim align with the white academia aesthetic. However, I can't argure that it's a pen with a great writing experience.

[@wlbrockman]

Oh. One more reason for selecting the Lamy Studio and the vintage Parker 51 for library use: they can both be posted so as to eliminate any concern about misplacing the cap. In addition, the Parker 51 is very quiet in use.

[@HemingwayJones]

Very true. The VP is so loud, for instance, in comparison. Brilliant.

[@richardsimms251]

Absolutely fabulous programme RS. Canada

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@manifunk1]

I recommend a brand called National Security Fountain Pens I believe they made pens in the 1920s. I picked up one at the London Pen Show a few years ago and it would fit right in with this theme.

[@HemingwayJones]

Sounds Brilliant! Thank you!

[@Quinkerbell_3604]

Great video! My Esterbrook Estie in Ebony is my favorite in this aesthetic. What pen are you using as 3:33?

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! Is that the overhead writing the letter? That’s the Montblanc 149. Just before that was the Montblanc Egyptomania. Thanks!

[@Wolverine3660]

Hi HJ!!!! As usual, this is a wonderful video. I would expect nothing less from you. Well, I work at a major University, and am a formerl PhD student, so this video hits home. I pretty much like all the aspects of Dark Academia as you do. Due to my medical problems, I have had to change my choice of clothing and my shoes, but, here is my choice of fountain pens : 1) Montblanc 149 fp, 2) Parker Duofold Centennial fp, 3) Kaweco Brass Sport fp, 4) Pelikan M-1000 fp, and 5) Lamy Al-Star fp, and Pilot Vanishing POint fp.

[@HemingwayJones]

A brilliant list! Thanks for the kind words, My Friend! Hugs Always.

[@SukiSusan1]

Wow! I just discovered you! Thank you!

[@HemingwayJones]

Welcome! Happy to have you! Check out some more videos! I have 4 on Dark Academia.

[@MikeBae]

I’m surprised the Egyptomania didn’t make the list. That was the first one that came to mind.

[@HemingwayJones]

Part 2 comes out this Thursday at noon 8/3. It may well be on there.

[@MikeBae]

@@HemingwayJonesI see that it was #1 on the second list! Still, I’m surprised it wasn’t on the first list-any particular reason it didn’t make it the first time around?

[@ciannacoleman5125]

Only reason fountain pens are "outdated" is because most inexpensive (or honestly even semi-expensive) papers are not manufactured to accept any moisture. That and many people just don't care enough for the "hassle" of liquid ink, inky fingers, and actually refilling vs tossing empty pens

[@HemingwayJones]

Certainly not in these quarters! Happy to have you with us. Thanks for watching.

[@ciannacoleman5125]

@@HemingwayJones Lol, not for me either. I switched 95% of my pen usage to fountain pens & love getting ink on my fingers. Thank you for your videos.

[@llorcall]

Ow yeah

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@torres870rem]

Best part 5:46. 👍🏼

[@HemingwayJones]

Aw, Baby Imogen in Tweed! Love that bit. Thank you.

[@johnmanuel2980]

HJ, great video I loved it. The back-drop of the library was stunning in aesthetics. The pens that you chose were a great way of imagining Dark Academia students doing the work that will open the minds of our future leaders. I would have liked to have the Visconti Homo Sapien Bronze Age as a pen in the video. Its look shouts Dark Academia. What do you think?

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello John, I agree completely! That is an excellent choice! Love the Visconti.

[@JosephDickson]

My gut says one of those Visconti pens made from stone or lava. I haven't tried them but I suspect that would make my list. However, as a designer I can't ignore the Lamy 2000. That would be my personal pen of choice.

[@HemingwayJones]

All great choices for certain! I may have included the Visconti HS but I had just done a bunch of videos on it. Thanks so much.

[@Michelt007]

Wow, so I was a part of the Dark Academia subculture all those years without knowing it? Awesome!

[@KendallW]

Such a well made video! Amazing visuals and locations. Love the esoteric stuff :) I feel like the Pilot Custom 823 in Amber would be a great fit into this theme.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a great pen! It definitely would have worked well. Great call!

[@Alliejay-C]

Every time I think I have settled on a favorite video of yours, you go and do something even better! Very well done and I enjoyed it very much.

[@HemingwayJones]

Alliejay! Thank you! That means so much to me! I am so glad that you enjoyed it. I love this one, mostly because of the editing. Thanks!!!

[@Dr.Shymaa]

how joyful are your videos when i listen how you describe showing the link between the fountain pen and the classical era

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Doctor! I appreciate it very much!!!

[@aumjohnfisher8181]

I so enjoy the way you wax lyrical. This one is classic.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! I really appreciate it.

[@johnclark1371]

I truly appreciate the content and community that you create on your channel. I know that it requires a great deal of work and expense. It is very much appreciated. I agree that the Secret History is an unforgettable and thoroughly enjoyable read. I heard Donna Tartt comment that Bleak House was her favorite novel. You can see the influence of Dickens in her descriptive writing style. She transports you into the world of her characters. Thanks again for the dive into dark academia.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello John! Thanks so much for writing! I am so glad you enjoyed it and that you are a Donna Tartt fan. All the best!

[@ibpopp]

You have a great tailor; but such new pens? Really? I feel defiled whenever I touch any pen made after 1960, and 'precious resin' has me rushing to the dermatologist with ulcerated rashes. [For all you Americans, humour alert--and note the spelling.] Cheers from the Great Southern Land of Botany Bay.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for watching and for the kind words on the Tweed. I am a Tweed aficionado. Stay well and thanks again.

[@wendellbooth7735]

Once again another hit of the park Dr. Jones. This is a area of literature I am starting to break into. Just a suggestion you have made several refence to The Secret History. You should do a video review of the book in how it touched you and tie it to the Montblanc 149. Always a pleasure to watch you and learn my friend. You are truly a inspiration. Cheers

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much, Wendell! You are so kind. Thanks for being here with me!

[@peterpuleo2904]

For "Dark Academia" I have always wondered what pens did Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker, Edgar A. Poe use to write their dark fiction. H.P Lovecraft used a Waterman flex, and Stephen King sometimes used a modern model Waterman. Mark Twain did not write dark fiction, but he used Conklin. What pen did Robert Louis Stevenson use to write "Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde"?

[@HemingwayJones]

All excellent points and questions! Mary Shelley was back in quill / dip pen days, I suppose.

[@myepictbr6968]

I would hazard a guess that Stevenson used quills.

[@peterpuleo2904]

@@myepictbr6968 I think he used steel nib dip pens, which were around when he wrote. The quill went into disuse before Lincoln was president.

[@douteurhenrydickson3354]

Dark Academia - Hemingway Jones - As usual, KZbin's algorithm (which probably knows me better than I do, made me discover you) - I appreciate your videos, the use of fountain pens, this wonderful writing instrument - which could be said to be outdated age-old or antique - like the dip pen Speedball nib tips on wooden handles now reserved for calligraphy - or for novelists who like a certain rigor and the hallucinatory or hypnotizing effect (without the use of illegal substances and dangerous for the body, health and mind and freedom of movement without a criminal record) that are the old dactylo - typewriters or writing machine with keys for printing letters on a piece of paper as they were called - small assault tank that still work after 100 years of use I can only encourage you during the moments of melancholy or acedia or black bile or spleen (as we used to say) (Baudelairean spleen) (and many others): Edgar Allan Poe Howard Phillips Lovecraft Kafka Jim Morrison (Doors) Kurt Cobain André "Dédé" Fortin Amy Winehouse Sinéad O'Connor Anything goes (as we used to say) Natural remedy (without Pfizer) - Writing with a beautiful pen and a beautiful luminous ink on beautiful papers while travelling to Quebec City

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much for this wonderful and insightful comment! I love reading from people who really get what I’m trying to do here. Thanks so much for watching and for being here.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the wonderful comment and for being here!

[@mrcat3493]

The photography was beautiful, Hemingway. Was that your family in the shots?

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! Yes, that’s my wife and daughter.

[@richardsimms251]

Another enjoyable and very well done presentations. Thank you

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Richard!!!

[@ceilidh1111]

I quite like this one. I wasn't familiar with Dark Academia, but I've always felt I could live in a library. (First step into the Bodleian brought tears.) Also, enjoyed the shot of Mrs. HJ in front of Temeraire. Turner is my all-time favorite artist.

[@HemingwayJones]

You and me, both, on the living in a library sentiment! I love libraries! You can tell by how much they feature on this channel. I haven’t been to the Bodleian, but one day! I love Turner as well, which is why I chose that one. That picture means a lot to both of us. Thanks so much!

[@lovejoyy]

This is fantastic. I don’t have any en collection but admire them. Since I was a highschool student I have always wanted a Mont Blanc. And I remember that passage in The Secret History. A definite favorite. Yes, very immersive.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much for watching. I am glad that you are a fan of Secret History.

[@archivist17]

Interesting selection. I would have gone for more conservative styles from the 1940s-60s - an era I am drawn to in terms of visual art and theatre. The C-S fits right in, of course. Where was this filmed? You may have given it a credit that I missed, but I do have library envy now!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I agree. I sort of lumped all vintage pens together at the end. The CS definitely holds that aesthetic. I'm not sure I credited the library. I should check. It's the Concord, MA library.

[@ATfan23]

Hemingway, what’s the ink color at 6:23? Pelican Brilliant Brown maybe? Monteverdi Red Velvet?

[@HemingwayJones]

That has to be Oxblood from Diamine.

[@vivvv2630]

This video made me poignant for university. I could smell the racks in all the imagery. I miss that smell. I believe a field trip is in order this weekend! I too share your deep love for all things bookish, including my beloved pens and journals. Truly wonderful video!

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful! I love the library smell. I even have a candle that has that smell.

[@vivvv2630]

@@HemingwayJones Amazing! What is that candle???

[@HemingwayJones]

@@vivvv2630 It’s by Modern Alchemy and is called Ex Libris

[@lizpilgrim1]

I just read "The Secret History". I agree with everything you said about it; I love it! Another wonderful video. I love Dark Academia. Thanks!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I am so glad you enjoyed it.

[@remyvegamedia]

I've been a student of the esoteric, mythology, mysticism, philosophy, poetry, etc. for over 20 years or so (I got really into it as a teenager). It's interesting that this look is now a sort of trend haha. I've just recently started learning calligraphy and now fountain pens. This is a really cool topic to highlight. Also, surprised to see the Eco in there, but it will DEFINITELY be my tool for poetry, research, and musings on esoteric and mystical subjects.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks! I feel like it was the same for me. I just was and then this came along and everyone remarked at how much of it I was… Plus, I rather like the name and the idea of it. I did a bunch of videos on the subject since; including one on inks. I added the Eco because I always like an affordable and interesting option. Plus, it is such a great writer and pen. I think some of the colored versions may be best: Rose Gold & Smoke for instance. Thanks so much for watching and please do stop by again soon.

[@RobertMaguire67]

Dark Academia: interesting topic. Yes the Conway Stewart Churchill lever filler is friendly...the sac fails due to the faulty lever design. TWSBI eco that glows for Dark Academia is a must have. The Visconti Wall Street, an Opera Master Typhoon, the Aurora Optima, Sheaffer Targa, Sailor King of Pen, Delta Dolca Vita, a Black Pen Society Franklin Christoph special edition, a Dr. Ken Cavers custom made pen, the Levenger True Writer with signature nibs, a Junior Esterbrook with the journaller nib, the Waterman 52 1/2 and the CONID bulkfiller all excellent choices also. Jinhao X450 and X159 you dont even mind forgetting in the library stacks though librarians shudder knowing someone lurks in their domicile with a fountain pen. And what academic would not want a Pelikan 120, 200, 400, 600, 800 1000 or any other special bird. Omas has that titanium nib, and the OMAS 360 demonstrator belongs in every self respecting collectors case especially those in academia. The Visconti Ragtime is a fun academia every day pen with the outspoken nib and Italian history. And Parker Duofold's so rich in history from world war era to more modern productions all impressive. HOWEVER MB Starwalker is in no self respecting fountain pen collector/academic collection unless it was a gift.

[@HemingwayJones]

Wonderful list! Thanks so much for watching!

[@csikomas8910]

Dear Hemingway, I so wanted that nib of the Meisterstuck 149 but the grip was gigantic! Ahhh, I went down one size to the 147 but I still love having it, for my first Mont Blanc. Your ability to articulate exactly how I feel about Fountain Pens is so appreciated. You've created a safe place to be eccentric, oooh la la. I was trying to explain to a fellow yesterday about fountain pens, and I lost him quickly. You either are like that, or not. You either are a collector or not. I like to think of myself as a curator. I have one friend, with similar tastes in pens and journals but she also collects vintage lighters, can you believe that? I love books, and first editions. I'm so grateful there's you out there, dressing as you do, exploring and capturing moments as you do, for us all to appreciate along with you. Regards, Cheryl

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Cheryl! Thank you so much for your extremely kind comments. This is a very safe space for you. You are part of this tribe so let's celebrate our eccentricities together. This is what makes us interesting. Thank you so much for being here and for enjoying this Channel. It was made for people like us.

[@williamhughes1067]

Hi -- Great video! I agree with other viewers who feel it's fun to see normal behavior and trends of past generations revived once more as if they were some new thing. Dark Academia appears as reincarnated stereotypical World War II-era (the 1930s and 1940s) European and New England university cultures, although I may not be viewing it correctly. At any rate, any of the older, classic fountain pens should fit the bill nicely, especially the Montblanc 149, which you include in the video. I can't see including any distinctly modern or over-the-top "glamour" pens in this lineup, as they should reflect the period.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much for watching and thanks for your perspective. I appreciate it. Stop by again soon.

[@stevekail4543]

I know I'm a little late to the party but I have to mention BENU's line of Talisman pens. While bright sparkling pens may not seem to be an obvious choice consider this: each pen is infused with a substance thought to have mystical powers such as Mandrake root, Venus's Hair crystals, sap from the Dragon's Blood tree, etc. I don't think any other line of pens could represent the spirit of dark academia in a better way.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a brilliant addition, My Friend. Thank you!

[@johnneville403]

What a wonderful video. Fountain pens and The Secret History! What's not to love! Do you mind if I ask where you filmed this? It's beautiful and very atmospheric. Thanks again.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I appreciate that. So, it was filmed in Concord, MA at the South Burying Ground, at Concord Free Public Library, & at Hammond Castle in Gloucester, MA. Thanks very much!

[@crouserm]

Well, I'm not certain I'd have called it "Dark", except, that when my wife and I dine out we do have to alternate between the light airy places she enjoys, and the dark timbers and paneling I like. As to dependable, safe to be absent-minded about pens, I have to say that the Chinese really are stepping up their game. Derivative designs? Sure. Sometimes shameless! But, far from vitiating taste, I think they awaken one to the possibility of aspiring to the classics. I think also that having a pen made by an artist one can meet personally is meaningful. Hardy Penwrights, for me. As to vintage, I found a cheap Wahl-Oxford that I had restored, and treasure writing with it.

[@HemingwayJones]

All excellent choices. I will see you at one of those dark paneled places. Best!

[@amoledzeppelin]

Speaking of academia... I read the title as "Top 120 fountain pens", because 5! = 120.

[@HemingwayJones]

That would be a lot of work. Thanks!!

[@Ybalrid]

I'll check my vintage india black parker 51 with a rolled gold cap... Hard to date exactly, I think 1949 or 1950. Surprisingly I got it from a collector in Serbia

[@HemingwayJones]

What a wonderful story. Brilliant.

[@dalydegagne1839]

I loved the library shots - the lighting, high ceilings and multi-level stacks exposed to view are most appealing. What library is that? I quite enjoyed the video. Thank you.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! It’s the library in Concord, MA. I am so glad that you enjoyed it.

[@karidru5272]

I think the Metro is a great choice in particular. Students aren't necessarily made of money, and that's the least expensive, most consistently available pen that looks like it might come from another time. My personal choice that's different from your list is indeed a Benu; I have the Euphoria in October Fall. It is dark, evokes firelight, and evokes the spirit of autumn, which conjures a bit of excitement in the heart of anyone who has spent any amount of time at all attuned to the academic calendar. While it's still available, it is limited, but Benu offers a lot of choices that might go hand in hand with someone's particular research passion.

[@HemingwayJones]

Excellent points, My Friend, and a fantastic comment. Part II is coming soon!

[@francisinfocus]

Having watched the whole video, I'm curious as to all the notebooks you use for all the writing you do. I'd love a video on this: all the various notebooks/papers you use for all the writing you do. I'm thinking about what I can use for work and court, etc.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so my, Francis! I can do that. Thanks for watching.

[@stationery.shenanigans]

Great video! I'm transitioning to academia later this year so I will take this as a sign to get a TWSBI Eco 🤣

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for the kind words! Congratulations on entering Academia.

[@michaelmelling9333]

I'm being heavily shadowbanned by the Overlords, but if you see this, I just want to say thanks for letting me know about this dark academia thing, i'll look into it for sure!

[@HemingwayJones]

I do see it. Thanks for the kind words. Sorry about your situation. Wish you all the best.

[@wesdenham282]

Given the mid-six-figure compensation of tenured faculty at Harvard, I would expect no academic to use any pen worth less than $1,000!

[@HemingwayJones]

Haha! Very good point!

[@reddiewip]

I love your content, Hemingway. This video was beautifully produced! Your voice is very nice by the way :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! This is such a kind comment. Thanks for the encouragement!

[@LauraKnotek]

I think the Narwhal Nautilus in Cephalopod Black is perfect for dark academia due to the Jules Verne connection.

[@HemingwayJones]

I love this idea! Thank you!

[@Calcprof]

Well I was in academia for many many years (now I'm retired). And I think Dark Academia is a faculty meeting. 🙂 I sign importain documents with my Nakaya Aka-Tamenuri (Thin layer of dark red over lighter red). I think it fits dark academia. I believe I've signed PhD theses (of students) with it.

[@HemingwayJones]

Well said, My Friend! Thanks so much for watching.

[@Tracywhited2]

I’d love to see you do an interview with Micheal Jecks from Writerly Witterings. I think you two would be a great pair.

[@HemingwayJones]

That sounds great. I would love to interview them.

[@andrewscott9610]

Writing with fountain pens maybe out dated, but I prefer handwriting letters to family and friends. It more personal. And I also get great feedback on the ink I use. It means more when you receive a handwritten letter as to an email.

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree so much! Thanks!

[@nope8535]

Dark Academia reminds me of the Intellectual Goths back when I was younger, it seems a more mature version really.

[@HemingwayJones]

I can see that! Great connection.

[@pmichael73]

Excellent! Fountain pens, like hot water, are key elements of civilized societies.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hear hear! Thanks for watching.

[@dorkomatic]

Vintage pens are definitely appropriate. (My favourite is my Mabie-Todd "Swan")

[@HemingwayJones]

An excellent choice! Thanks for watching.

[@maxbowie6074]

What nib size is your Conway Stewart Churchill please? Looks like a fine or medium?

[@HemingwayJones]

It’s a medium.

[@philmunson3307]

This might be my favorite of your videos. I am a libraryaholic and love the way you melded academia and fountain pens. The vintage pen prose was the best. Thanks.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, Phil! Means the world to me.

[@zazaincalifornia]

I was expecting Visconti Homo sapiens in the list but I like your choices and rationale behind them!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I could have gone Visconti. It’s a good choice! Thanks for watching.

[@arguchik]

As a former literature grad student (I wrote half a dissertation before leaving academia, a state I describe as "terminally ABD," haha), I find the dark academia trend somewhat vexing. I'm fine with it as a set of style choices - I wear a lot of black (though I'm not victorian or gothy), I have a large fountain pen collection, and I write several journal pages per day with one or more of my fountain pens. I also prefer reading physical books, and I like old movies. 🙂 I'm 100% in favor of people expressing their personal style, whether it's punk, sporty, or darkly academic. I dropped out of graduate school for a whole tangle of reasons, but here are two big ones: 1. Academia has been thoroughly taken over by capitalism and corporatization (ugh, I hate that word but I can't think of a better one), at this point - like almost everything, it seems; and 2. The higher ed. job market for scholars in the arts and humanities has been on the decline since at least the 1980s, and it nosedived after 2008. In my view, dark academia embodies a romantic nostalgia for a milieu that no longer exists, and that some would argue never existed, since it was (and continues to be) inaccessible to a majority of people. So yeah...as a style, have at it! For me, though...this trend comes with some baggage.

[@HemingwayJones]

I did discuss some of the negatives in one of my Dark Academic Videos. I have a few on here now. For me, if it inspires people to read, write, or study; I am supportive. Thanks so much for watching! You sound very interested and well rounded and just the sort of audience I have been aiming for. I hope you drop by again. All the best.

[@arguchik]

@@HemingwayJones I will! I have been enjoying your videos a lot. :) And yes, I 100% agree that if dark academia is what sparks an interest in reading, writing, studying, learning, exploring, etc. then I'm in favor of it. I think my main concern is that it will foster this feeling that the "academia" part is necessary to those endeavors, and it's really not. It is a very specific career choice, and it's not necessary to become an academic in order to cultivate a life of the mind.

[@thomashardy9994]

A very interesting and scholarly topic. I like the increasing use of b roll in your videos. Nice use of the lovely ladies.

[@HemingwayJones]

I am glad you enjoyed the videos.

[@judyanderson1329]

This was truly inspiring! I love seeing the gorgeous libraries you film in. The content was excellent!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Judy! I am so glad you enjoyed it.

[@jayj8524]

Hi, Once more a very well done and amazing video to this interesting topic. It's always a pleasure to watch your videos. Thanks for all the efforts to put your content into an appropriate atmosphere.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Jay very much! I appreciate it.

[@markswishereatsstuff2500]

I use the Cross Townshend in Sterling Silver. It has an Art Deco aesthetic and I let it tarnish naturally.

[@HemingwayJones]

Brilliant choice!

[@amyd.5990]

Great video! It seems to me that one of your heros, Indiana Jones, is also Dark Academia. He would also love this video! :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Amy! That is a very good point!

[@charlesayodele2407]

Meisterstuck 149 is always a usual suspect in any penmanship situation.

[@HemingwayJones]

Certainly with me! Thanks!

[@rhondacarlock6735]

Wonderful video really enjoyed watching this one!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Rhonda!

[@cmaster0368]

I'm late to the party...but what a lovely and compelling video.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for watching and for the kind words.

[@tramzone]

I love the way of your storytelling and the soothing tone of your voice 😻

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@technoraptor7778]

Nice! I like the idea for top 5 pens of various genre like this....next you're going to have to do a top 5 for outdoor journaling, like nature, wilderness, camping, parks.

[@HemingwayJones]

Yes! Exactly!

[@ATfan23]

Maps and Legends.

[@123draakje]

Thank you so much for this video. I really enjoyed watching! You really know how to show the beauty of fountain pens, libraries, books and writing. I would choose my lovely Pilot E95s burgundy.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I love the Pilot E95S. Lovely pen!

[@wlbrockman]

OK. Time for a dissenting voice from all the laudatory comments. By way of background, I should explain that I was just beaten out by my best friend in HS senior year for the coveted "History Is Bunk" award. My undergrad alma mater has a magnificent, old library like those in this video, which I assiduously avoided except when necessary to relieve myself or get out of the rain or snow. I was in a frat, after all, and couldn't risk becoming known as a "greasy grind." On to law school where the library was a dismal part of an old building that was soon to be torn down to be replaced by the theatre department building--on hindsight, a most appropriate substitution in the light of how many lawyers I saw during my 45 years of practice who postured in court as if they were on stage. Nevertheless, I came to know it well because I had the great, good fortune to fall under the tutelage of the late Dr. Brendan Francis Brown, a renowned Natural Law theorist and part of the Nuremburg prosecution team that developed the international law theories used to prosecute Nazi war criminals. He was a "true" Jesuit in the very best sense. He was also the coach of the International Law Moot Court team of which I became the principal brief writer. If you recall Professor Kingsfield from the movie, The Paper Chase, you'll appreciate my explaining that Dr. Brown made him look tame in his intellectual rigor. His many questions on reading what we wrote had us spending long hours in that sorry excuse for a library. With all that background, here's my answer to your question: First, I like your suggestions for appropriate pens very much. With Dr. Brown in mind, however, and thinking now of his frugality and his appreciation for excellence, I would choose a pen that, should he see me using it, would strike him as a good choice. Something classic in appearance, yet of known good quality and appropriate to my relatively modest means. Hence, I would hope to have in my hand when seen a Lamy Studio, a vintage Parker51 or something similar. Thanks for another wonderful, whimsical trip, Hemingway. Keep up the good work!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello William, wonderful story and great color and background. I cannot find fault with those excellent pen choices! The only issue I have ever had with the 51, is that I find it difficult to find the nib sometimes. I adore my vintage iteration. Thanks so much for this wonderful contribution to the channel.

[@wlbrockman]

@@HemingwayJones De nada, Hemingway. If I can contribute a bit to this wonderful community building up under your guidance, I'm glad to do so. Too, I also sometimes have to "work" to keep the nib on my 51 where it needs to be to get ink on the paper. However, when I manage the feat, I find it worth the effort. Carry on, peerless leader!

[@dollishillwork]

If you want to make a statement, Montblanc is the one. If you are worried about losing your pen, Pilot Metropolitan is the one.

[@HemingwayJones]

That’s an excellent strategy. Thanks for watching this one. This video is very dear to me and I am so glad you liked it. Thanks!

[@dollishillwork]

@@HemingwayJones thanks Hemingway. Personally, when visiting clients, I use the montblanc. Otherwise I use a silver sterling cross century 11. In my office, I use a diplomat excellence A2, which is very good.

[@kenblair2538]

Very entertaining video Mr. Jones. (Hello from Eastampton). That Mont Blanc is out of my budget . My fav is a Jinhao x450 with a Goulet Pens M nib. Looking forward more videos. KB

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Ken! Welcome! I appreciate the kind words.

[@aynangshusaha7398]

What an Amazing channel ❤ Thank you for such amazing creations

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for the kind and encouraging words!

[@ginopagnani7286]

Excellent video HJ, truly one of your best. The library interiors were fantastic !!!

[@HemingwayJones]

Gino, My Friend, Thanks so much! I’m glad you liked it!

[@LewisLittle66]

Dark Academia = Goth for grown-ups. 😂

[@HemingwayJones]

Seriously!

[@marilyngardner4269]

What a unique approach to a theme. I appreciate the creativity and passion that went into this video. I laughed when you mentioned BENU, because that was my first thought -- particularly the Skull and Roses pen, which someone else also suggested. It perfectly echoes the Gothic aesthetic. A vintage Sheaffer Balance or even a Balance II from the 1990s in a classic flake material (I have a collection of them) would be a fitting choice. An engraved sterling silver Yard-o-Led could work. And of course, a vintage Parker Duofold would also fit the dark academia theme; to me, it is along the same general lines as the Conway Stewart in terms of its historical importance. I appreciate the inclusion of pens at all price points, although the Pilot Metropolitan seemed off because of the sleek silver finish; perhaps the grey Retro model with the houndstooth accent band would have been more spot on? In any case, that was fun, and you were clearly enjoying yourself.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi Marilyn! Yes! I wish I had had a darker Metropolitan at the time, but I wanted to feature the appropriate pen and a slightly different one than usual. Plus, my Safaris are Mango & White! I love the idea of Shaeffer! My Legacy is shiny chrome, so… that could be problematic. Still though, embedded nib, glorious! And yes, Benu! Thanks so much for the kind words. They really are encouraging!

[@ostensibly531]

Which library was this? It looks like heaven. High ceilings. Dark and bright at the same time. The classic lamps. And above all, no people.

[@HemingwayJones]

The local library in Concord, MA. It’s lovely.

[@ostensibly531]

​@@HemingwayJonesthank you

[@mochaaerial2875]

Hello, this was a super cool video and I really enjoyed the theme of it. I have recently been getting more and more into pens and inks but I am curious about your favorite papers and journals. I initially was interested in fountain pens as a way to motivate myself to journal more but I’m having trouble finding a journal with a smooth enough paper. What would you recommend?

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello and thank you for the kind comments! I appreciate it very much! I think the smoothest paper that I have written on was Rhodia. They do make some journals. I usually use Bottega Obscura journals for their amazing artistry. I like Clairefontaine for correspondence. There are a lot of excellent choices.

[@mochaaerial2875]

@@HemingwayJones thank you so much for the help!

[@shane6242]

Enjoyed the video, Hemingway. I didn't realize that Dark Academia was a thing, you're opening eyes with this one! Cheers.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much, Shane! I appreciate that.

[@sajjadhusain4146]

For a fleeting moment, I somehow thought of the Deep State when I saw Dark Academia.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@sajjadhusain4146 Funny!

[@sajjadhusain4146]

@@HemingwayJones ..Ha, it is. But not far-fetched either. Today’s academia, (the centers of higher learning and the faculty) in general, is quite mired in a very corrosive culture of fear, corruption, coercion and conformism.

[@AMusset]

Thank you for another superb video! What is the blue ink you use at 3:31 in the video ? It looks truly stunning! P.S. Thank you for introducing me to >Dark Academia< I wasn't aware of it but it is classically wonderful :)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for watching and for the kind words. That ink is J Herbin Eclat de Saphir. It is an awesome color. So vivid. Thanks again.

[@AMusset]

@@HemingwayJones Wow! For real? I do have Éclat de Saphir and it never looks this vivid! This means you have amazing lighting ! Kuddos :)

[@HemingwayJones]

It could very well be the lights. @@AMusset

[@JSGilbert]

I have all four of the named pens you have and a bunch of older pens. My beginning of collecting was Waterman and Montblanc, and I really don’t enjoy writing with anything but a fountain pen.

[@shamus730ify]

One of your best videos! They are not only well done but they also inspire! My list would be 1- 149. 2- Lamy 2000. 3- E95s. 4- Esterbrook Estie. 5- TWSBI vac.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Jim! I appreciate it so much! Wonderful list! Maybe I could have swapped the Vac for the Eco!

[@shamus730ify]

Reason I chose the vac over the eco is 1 pen with available screw in nibs giving a better choice and giving the list more options without adding any pens.

[@HemingwayJones]

A very good point and choice.

[@irwinlati6179]

Hi a few months ago I saved my money for a duragraph pen and I loved it recently I went to grab it from my pocket and it was gone I checked everywhere how to you deal with loosing pen best regards to my duragraph

[@irwinlati6179]

We have talked on til tok before

[@HemingwayJones]

I am so sorry for you losing your pen. That is really tough. So sorry. For me, I hope that it finds a happy home and then I think of how I want to begin again. Wish you all the best and thanks for being here. Sorry for the pen.

[@janodewald6087]

Now I finally know, what the style my desk accessories and writing utensils look like is called. Thank you for the phenomenal images and impressions you share in your videos. I would go with my Diplomat Excellence A2 in black. Heavy pen to sit at a wooden desk with. And for writing on the go, I have a vintage Parker 51 that suits the style. Thank you for the video!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Jan! Thanks for the great suggestions. The Diplomat is excellent. Plus, the Parker 51, vintage, is a classic! All the best.

[@tce4159]

I hope no one is counting how many times I’ve watched this… 🤭

[@HemingwayJones]

I appreciate it so much! Thank you!

[@AvecPoesie]

Hemingway, you possess the remarkable ability to outdo yourself. You sir, have done that here. I have been struggling quite mightily to endure the last twelve hours due to some severe chronic pain caused my a medical condition I was born with. When in pain, each minute feels akin to an eternity. This video is the first distraction I have delved into during this arduous, excruciating time that truly transported my mind and spirit. The world you've created here is one I am profoundly grateful for. The Secret History is a phenomenal book 📖 and each pen you displayed mesmerized my gaze. As a voracious reader, I so relate to your sentiment about feeling haunted by a book and missing the characters within it. Your words on melancholy and the passage of time was so poignant and eloquent that it elicited tears from my eyes. I feel a bit less weary, even less melancholy after viewing this. ✒

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Avec. That is very kind of you. I am sorry that you are going through some tough times. If my work has helped to assuage some of the pain for even a moment, I am tremendously grateful. Thanks so much! I connect with this one too. it affects me deeply. This is how we all solidify our connections. I am wish you all the best always.

[@bookbutterfly2408]

I'm not sure why, but the Muji Aluminum fountain pen has a very dark academia feel to me, especially if it's filled with Waterman Serenity Blue.

[@anneh3185]

Hello from 🇬🇧 , thank you for a very interesting video. I have recently found your channel and I am enjoying it immensely. I have worked at a university for many years now and there is always a population of folks like us who are interested in dark academia , even before it was called that, fountain pens, books , ideas and journals , all of it the stuff of life 😊

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, Anne, so much! For watching and the kind comment. Stop by again soon.

[@williamcarter_CPA_CGMA]

Wow, you really out did yourself this time. Amazing video. This one will go viral. I guess I am old, after undergrad I was able to attend the first Catholic Seminary in the United States. St. Mary's in Baltimore. The year was 1986. Before Dark Academia. Studying Philosophy and starting a philosophy club with our teacher who was retired from another university. We would meet at her home, living room looked like a library and each cat was named after a philosopher. Homes are very old there with wrap around porches and very large. Old wood floors, old Victorian furniture, and books floor to ceiling in beautiful bookcases. After a year and a half I transferred to a Benedictine Monastery. Underground tunnels, the library was amazing, spiral staircases in iron. Studying philosophy and latin and many other subjects. Living the Dark Academia lifestyle. I went back to my original major and attend Oglethorpe University (Georgia) which looks very Gothic. Amazing. For my choice of fountain pen, I have the Benu Skulls and Roses Fountain Pen in Smolder. Beautiful pen and writes wonderfully. Fits the mood. Fountain Pens, Journals and Books. What more could one ask for? Well done.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you, William! I appreciate the kind words and awesome story of your academic career. We are around the same age. Your Uni experience sounds like The Secret History. Amazing! I agree on the Benu choice. brilliant! Thanks!

[@AudriannaB-World-Peace]

I have always loved and adored writing with fountain pens! I am do glad this channel just showed up on my KZbin feed! I wholeheartedly subscribed on the spot!🌟

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! I am delighted to have you here. Welcome!

[@SukiSusan1]

Thank you! I sure will! 🌸🌷🌸🌷🌸

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@myepictbr6968]

I understand the logic behind all the choices (it is solid) but it resulted in an ultimately very safe list.

[@HemingwayJones]

I maybe should have put more dark into my Dark Academia and had some sort of violent pen. Next time.

[@myepictbr6968]

@@HemingwayJones Like one of those hidden knife pens? Very useful for some casual academic backstabbing. But even if you wanted to choose only the pens from your collection, I am surprised that Egyptomania did not make an appearance, even as an honourable mention. Egyptomania as a trend is peak Dark Academia, and the pen delivers from the aesthetic point of view.

[@tmwtpbrent14]

The Secret History is the worst book I've ever read. It solidified my stance on not reading women authors.