# Lines on a Typewriter explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by James McIntyre.

## What happens

The poet responds to a letter written with a typewriter, defending the traditional quill pen as superior for writing prose and verse, and cautioning against abandoning the old ways.

## Themes in this chapter

### Progress and Technology

The poem contrasts the new typewriter with the traditional quill, reflecting tension between technological progress and established practices.

### Moral Lessons and Domestic Virtue

The poet advises against abusing the old quill, implying a moral preference for preserving traditional tools and methods.

## Key lines

> You glory in your typewriter, And its virtues you rehearse, But we prefer the old inditer, For to write either prose or verse.

You boast about your typewriter and list its advantages, but I still prefer the old pen for writing both prose and poetry.

_The poet directly states his preference for the traditional quill over the typewriter._

> And let each man work his will, But never never do abuse The ancient and glorious quill From the wing of a fine old goose.

Everyone should follow their own preference, but never disparage the venerable and noble quill made from a goose feather.

_The poet urges respect for the traditional writing instrument, warning against dismissing it._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se/chapters/lines-on-a-typewriter
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_12_se/chapters