As the skill or “art” of letter writing seems to fade away, many aspects of the letter’s existence may also be forgotten. Without counterparts in the world of electronic communication, these “extras” from the old-fashioned world of envelopes and stamps are as much a part of the letter as the words themselves.

Penmanship

Loopy letters, sprawling scrawls, and delicate curves — these all disappear as handwritten correspondence declines. Also vanishing is the age of practicing proper calligraphy — a delicate art of writing that produced a flowing script so prim-and-proper that it brings to mind Jane Austen’s characters. With a special pen tip and hours of practice, the resulting formal script appeared on letters, invitations, cards, and other special communications.

Stationary

True stationary — the feel of textured paper, raised designs, and subtle, faded colors — also dwindles in light of layered email backdrops. With a range of sizes and styles, from thick pads featuring hearts and animals to loose sheets and adorable square-shaped envelopes, each letter writer selected the styles and number that best fit their correspondence needs.

Envelope Seals

From charity stamps to funny stickers, without a demand for envelopes, the demand for envelope seals also declines. Whether a matching sticker from a stationary set or an individually-chosen piece meant to amuse the receiver, these little gems are now few and far-between in most people’s mail.

Letter Boxes

As the number of letters received declines, so does the need to save and store correspondence. Boxes of letters, whether love letters tied with ribbons or family correspondence (usually with pictures and newspaper clippings tucked inside) no longer occupy space on closet shelves or under beds. Records of correspondence tend to vanish, since few people print and file their emails for posterity’s sake.

Will the electronic age stamp out the letter? Let’s hope not, since it takes with it a culture rich in color, history, and communication. Letters, like bits of ourselves, deserve to be tucked away for future readers, giving them insight into details as small as the price and pattern of stamps and as great as personal insights exchanged long ago.