FAQ about Therese's writing-desks > FAQ about Therese's writing-desk and writing > What was Therese’s handwriting like? Why did she once spit into her inkwell?
On top of the often dark and cold cell; the little oil lamp with the wick she had to push up with a pin, and which for love of poverty she adjusted to give her only the light she needed to see; the tiny bench; and balancing the little desk on her knees, Therese had to contend with her handwriting.
In her letters Therese often apologizes for her handwriting. On July 6, 1893, Therese ends a letter to Celine by writing:
Your heart alone will be able to read this letter, for I myself have difficulty in deciphering it. I have no more ink, I was obliged to spit into our inkwell to make some.. . is this not something to laugh about?...
Letters, Vol. II, p. 796.
Last updated on September 26, 2013 by Maureen O'Riordan