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Where are all the typewriters? In some sort of bonfire? |
Tom Wolfe wrote his new novel, Back to Blood, entirely by hand. But the author of The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test and The Bonfire of the Vanities also says that wasn't entirely by choice — he'd rather have used a typewriter.
"Unfortunately, you can't keep typewriters going today — you have to take the ribbons back to be re-inked," Wolfe tells Fresh Air's Dave Davies. "There's a horrible search to try to find missing parts."
Can't keep them going? Re-inked ribbons? Where have you been, Tom? Typewriters are very much alive.
Richard Polt's website lists many repair shops in the New York area. One of the most famous is Gramercy:
Gramercy Typewriter Company, 174 5th Avenue, Suite 400, New York, NY 10010. 212-674-7700. "Since 1932, serving the New York City area for typewriter sales and repairs of all makes and models. Specialist in IBM Selectric and Wheelwriter models. Overhauls on your old manual typewriters. Expert service on your Hewlett Packard laser jet printers too! For all your typewriter and laser jet printer needs, just call. Ask for Paul. He has been in the business for over 45 years. He must be doing something right! Call 212-674-7700, and on weekends call (917) 833-3277." Here is an article about owner Paul Schweitzer, here's another about him and his son Justin, here's an NPR story, and here is another story with video.
So, Tom, grab your walking stick and go visit Paul. I know he'll set you right up.