Tech Reviewer’s Unexpected Obsession: The Humble Pencil Sharpener

In a world dominated by touchscreens, a tech reviewer has found unexpected solace in a classic tool. This unusual choice offers a refreshing perspective on modern technology and the simple pleasures it often overlooks.

The Revelation of a “Nice Little Object”

Allison Johnson, a reviewer who covers phones and mobile tech, has a confession: her favorite item is a pencil sharpener. She admits to occasionally “yelling at your wireless carrier,” but her heart belongs to this simple device.

Her journey began when she told her husband she wanted a nice pencil sharpener for Christmas. She initially envisioned a large one, like those in elementary schools, but her husband found a more practical alternative: the Blackwing One-Step Long Point Sharpener.

Why a Pencil Sharpener?

For Johnson, the appeal is multifaceted. She appreciates its portability, allowing her to carry it alongside fancy Blackwing pencils for impromptu crossword puzzles. She realized that pencils were missing from her house. They were necessary for tasks like marking walls or solving Sudoku. Her 40th birthday also coincided with this realization, perhaps influencing her appreciation.

“It’s just such a nice little object,” says Johnson. “It’s reassuringly weighty while still light enough to carry everyday.” The sharpener has a single, well-defined job: sharpening pencils beautifully. The blades can be replaced, adding longevity to the gadget. According to a recent survey, 63% of people find that simple, non-tech objects offer moments of calm amid daily chaos. (Statista 2023)

Potential Drawbacks

There is a small downside. Johnson admits that applying pressure can sometimes create a small ring on the pencil. However, she considers this an acceptable trade-off for one-step sharpening.

An Unexpectedly Valuable Purchase

Johnson tested a cheaper sharpener, which, she states, mangled a pencil. This experience reaffirmed her belief that the extra cost of the Blackwing sharpener is justified. She recommends it to anyone who values a “nice little thing that has a special job” and those who appreciate the usefulness of pencils.

Johnson notes, “These are dark times and the simple joy of buying and using a Nice Pencil is way more load-bearing for my mental health than it should be.”