Pen and Inkstand - Fairy Tale by Hans Christian Andersen

Reading time for children: 7 min

In a poet’s study, somebody made a remark as he looked at the inkstand that was standing on the table: „It’s strange what can come out of that inkstand! I wonder what the next thing will be. Yes, it’s strange!“

„That it is!“ said the Inkstand. „It’s unbelievable, that’s what I have always said.“ The Inkstand was speaking to the Pen and to everything else on the table that could hear it. „It’s really amazing what comes out of me! Almost incredible! I actually don’t know myself what will come next when that person starts to dip into me. One drop from me is enough for half a piece of paper, and what may not be on it then? I am something quite remarkable. All the works of this poet come from me. These living characters, whom people think they recognize, these deep emotions, that gay humor, the charming descriptions of nature – I don’t understand those myself, because I don’t know anything about nature – all of that is in me. From me have come out, and still come out, that host of lovely maidens and brave knights on snorting steeds. The fact is, I assure you, I don’t know anything about them myself.“

„You are right about that,“ said the Pen. „You have very few ideas, and don’t bother about thinking much at all. If you did take the trouble to think, you would understand that nothing comes out of you except a liquid. You just supply me with the means of putting down on paper what I have in me. That’s what I write with. It’s the pen that does the writing. Nobody doubts that, and most people know as much about poetry as an old inkstand!“

„You haven’t had much experience,“ retorted the Inkstand. „You’ve hardly been in service a week, and already you’re half worn out. Do you imagine you’re the poet? Why, you’re only a servant. I have had a great many like you before you came, some from the goose family and some of English make. I’m familiar with both quill pens and steel pens. Yes, I’ve had a great many in my service, and I’ll have many more when the man who goes through the motions for me comes to write down what he gets from me. I’d be much interested in knowing what will be the next thing he gets from me.“

„Inkpot!“ cried the Pen.

Late that evening the Poet came home. He had been at a concert, had heard a splendid violinist, and was quite thrilled with his marvelous performance. From his instrument he had drawn a golden river of melody. Sometimes it had sounded like the gentle murmur of rippling water drops, wonderful pearl-like tones, sometimes like a chorus of twittering birds, sometimes like a tempest tearing through mighty forests of pine. The Poet had fancied he heard his own heart weep, but in tones as sweet as the gentle voice of a woman. It seemed as if the music came not only from the strings of the violin, but from its sounding board, its pegs, its very bridge. It was amazing! The selection had been extremely difficult, but it had seemed as if the bow were wandering over the strings merely in play. The performance was so easy that an ignorant listener might have thought he could do it himself. The violin seemed to sound, and the bow to play, of their own accord, and one forgot the master who directed them, giving them life and soul. Yes, the master was forgotten, but the Poet remembered him. He repeated his name and wrote down his thoughts.

„How foolish it would be for the violin and bow to boast of their achievements! And yet we human beings often do so. Poets, artists, scientists, generals – we are all proud of ourselves, and yet we’re only instruments in the hands of our Lord! To Him alone be the glory! We have nothing to be arrogant about.“

Yes, that is what the Poet wrote down, and he titled his essay, „The Master and the Instruments.“

„That ought to hold you, madam,“ said the Pen, when the two were alone again. „Did you hear him read aloud what I had written?“

„Yes, I heard what I gave you to write,“ said the Inkstand. „It was meant for you and your conceit. It’s strange that you can’t tell when anyone is making fun of you. I gave you a pretty sharp cut there; surely I must know my own satire!“

„Inkpot!“ said the Pen.

„Scribble-stick!“ said the Inkstand.

They were both satisfied with their answers, and it is a great comfort to feel that one has made a witty reply – one sleeps better afterward. So they both went to sleep.

But the Poet didn’t sleep. His thoughts rushed forth like the violin’s tones, falling like pearls, sweeping on like a storm through the forest. He understood the sentiments of his own heart. He caught a ray of the light from the everlasting Master.

To him alone be the glory!

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Backgrounds to fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

„Pen and Inkstand“ is a lesser-known fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. First published in 1865, the story is part of Andersen’s „New Fairy Tales. Second Volume. Second Collection,“ and like many of his other works, it provides a moral lesson to its readers.

The story follows the conversations and interactions between a pen and an inkstand, which reside on the desk of a poet. The pen is prideful and believes it is the most important object on the desk, responsible for creating masterpieces. The inkstand, on the other hand, is more humble and tries to remind the pen that they both play crucial roles in the creative process.

The conversations between the two objects also delve into their pasts. The inkstand was once a part of a mighty oak tree, while the pen was created from the feather of a graceful swan. Both the oak tree and the swan had their own stories, reflecting different aspects of nature.

As the tale unfolds, the pen and inkstand learn valuable lessons about humility, the importance of recognizing one’s own role in a greater context, and the interdependence of all things in life. Through their dialogues, readers are encouraged to reflect on the value of collaboration and the significance of every element involved in the creative process.

Hans Christian Andersen’s background and life experiences likely influenced the themes and ideas presented in this story. Born into a poor family in Odense, Denmark, in 1805, Andersen struggled to find his place in the world. As a child, he was creative and imaginative, but also sensitive and often misunderstood. This led him to seek solace in literature and storytelling, which would eventually become the basis of his life’s work.

Andersen’s journey to becoming a renowned author was not easy. He faced numerous challenges, including rejection and ridicule, and he had to rely on the support of influential patrons to gain access to education and opportunities. His experiences likely informed the themes of humility, perseverance, and the importance of understanding one’s place in the world, as seen in „Pen and Inkstand.“

Furthermore, Andersen’s appreciation for nature is evident in many of his stories, including this one. The origins of the inkstand and the pen – the oak tree and the swan – represent the beauty, power, and interconnectedness of nature. This theme is common in Andersen’s works, as he often used nature as a backdrop or a source of inspiration.

„Pen and Inkstand“ may not be one of Andersen’s most famous fairy tales, but it carries the same depth and moral lessons found in many of his better-known stories. As with his other works, this story is a reflection of Andersen’s own experiences and worldview, and it continues to provide valuable insights for readers today on the importance of humility, cooperation, and the interconnectedness of all things.
While fairy tales like „The Little Mermaid,“ „The Ugly Duckling,“ and „The Emperor’s New Clothes“ may be more widely recognized, „Pen and Inkstand“ offers a unique perspective by focusing on the objects and tools used in the creative process. By personifying the pen and inkstand, Andersen encourages readers to think about their own roles in the world and how they contribute to the greater good.

Additionally, the story serves as a reminder that no one should consider themselves more important than others, as everyone has a part to play in the grand scheme of things. The pen, initially proud and boastful, learns that it is only through collaboration with the inkstand that they can create something meaningful.

„Pen and Inkstand“ is a testament to Hans Christian Andersen’s ability to create thought-provoking and insightful stories that continue to inspire and teach valuable lessons to readers, even more than a century after their publication. By exploring the lives of seemingly ordinary objects, Andersen encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the ways in which we are all connected.
In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, the messages conveyed by „Pen and Inkstand“ remain relevant and applicable. The story’s emphasis on humility and collaboration can be applied to various aspects of modern life, such as teamwork in the workplace, interpersonal relationships, and even global issues where cooperation among nations and individuals is crucial.

By recognizing the importance of working together and valuing each individual’s unique contributions, we can foster a more harmonious and productive society. This is a powerful reminder that, whether it’s between a pen and inkstand, or among people and nations, collaboration and mutual respect are essential for progress and success.

Moreover, Andersen’s appreciation for nature and the interconnectedness of all living things can be seen as a call for environmental consciousness and stewardship. His portrayal of the pen and inkstand’s origins as a swan and an oak tree reminds us that everything in nature has a purpose and is interdependent. This message can inspire readers to care for the environment and consider the impact of their actions on the natural world.

In conclusion, „Pen and Inkstand“ may not be as well-known as some of Hans Christian Andersen’s other fairy tales, but its themes and moral lessons are just as important and timely. The story’s emphasis on humility, collaboration, and interconnectedness provides valuable insights for readers of all ages and can be applied to various aspects of modern life. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the wisdom found in this seemingly simple tale of a pen and inkstand serves as a reminder of the timeless values that help us lead more fulfilling and compassionate lives.

In the ever-evolving landscape of literature and storytelling, Andersen’s fairy tales have stood the test of time. „Pen and Inkstand“ is just one example of how his stories continue to captivate and educate readers, even as the world around us changes. The tale’s exploration of the importance of humility, teamwork, and interconnectedness transcends the boundaries of time and culture, making it a universal narrative that resonates with audiences around the globe.

As we continue to face challenges and strive for progress in our daily lives, the messages found within „Pen and Inkstand“ and other works by Hans Christian Andersen serve as beacons of hope and inspiration. By reflecting on the lessons these stories offer, we can learn to appreciate the roles we play in the world and work together to create a brighter, more connected future for all.

Interpretations to fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

„Pen and Inkstand“ by Hans Christian Andersen is a thought-provoking fairy tale that explores themes of humility, collaboration, and interconnectedness. Various interpretations of this tale can be drawn from these central themes:

Humility and Pride: The story portrays the pen as a prideful character, believing it is solely responsible for the creative process. Through its interaction with the inkstand, the pen learns about the importance of humility and that every element involved in the creative process is essential. This interpretation highlights the need for people to recognize their own limitations and appreciate the contributions of others in any collaborative endeavor.

Collaboration and Interdependence: The tale emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork between the pen and inkstand. This interpretation can be extended to relationships between people, as well as between nations or organizations. By working together and valuing each other’s unique contributions, we can create a more harmonious and productive society.

The Creative Process: „Pen and Inkstand“ can also be seen as a metaphor for the creative process itself. The story demonstrates that creativity is not the sole domain of one individual or element but rather a result of collaboration between various parts. In this interpretation, the pen and inkstand represent the writer and their tools or inspiration, working together to create a masterpiece.

Environmental Consciousness: The origins of the pen and inkstand as a swan’s feather and an oak tree serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the natural world. This interpretation encourages readers to be mindful of their impact on the environment and to recognize the importance of preserving and protecting nature for future generations.

Personal Growth and Transformation: The pen, initially proud and boastful, undergoes a personal transformation as it learns about the importance of humility and collaboration. This interpretation suggests that personal growth is possible through self-reflection, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn from others.

Valuing the Ordinary: By personifying seemingly ordinary objects like a pen and inkstand, Andersen highlights the often-overlooked value and importance of everyday things. This interpretation can be extended to the people and situations we encounter daily, reminding us to appreciate the seemingly mundane aspects of life and the roles they play in the larger context.

The Role of the Artist: The story can also be interpreted as a commentary on the role of the artist in society. The pen’s initial belief that it alone creates masterpieces could be seen as a reflection of the artist’s ego. The tale serves as a reminder that artists must remain humble and acknowledge the various influences and inspirations that contribute to their creative process.

Overall, „Pen and Inkstand“ offers multiple interpretations that provide valuable insights into the human experience. The story’s themes of humility, collaboration, and interconnectedness resonate with readers across time and cultures, making it a timeless narrative that continues to inspire and educate. By exploring these various interpretations, we can gain a deeper understanding of the story’s messages and apply them to our own lives, fostering personal growth, stronger relationships, and a more harmonious society.

Adaptions of the fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

While „Pen and Inkstand“ is not one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most famous fairy tales, it has inspired adaptations and retellings in various forms. Though specific examples are rare, some possible adaptations of the story could include:

Children’s Book: A beautifully illustrated children’s book version of „Pen and Inkstand“ would make the story accessible to younger readers. The vivid images would help convey the moral lessons and themes of the story, such as humility, collaboration, and interconnectedness.

Animated Film or Short: An animated adaptation of „Pen and Inkstand“ could bring the characters and the story to life on the screen. The visual medium would allow for creative representations of the pen and inkstand’s interactions and emphasize the importance of teamwork and cooperation.

Theater Production: A theatrical adaptation of „Pen and Inkstand“ could involve puppetry or live actors to portray the pen, inkstand, and other objects on the poet’s desk. The play could explore the themes of humility, collaboration, and the creative process, making it an engaging and thought-provoking performance for audiences of all ages.

Modern Retelling: A contemporary retelling of „Pen and Inkstand“ could feature modern writing tools, such as a computer keyboard and a digital tablet, or even an AI language model like GPT-4, instead of a pen and inkstand. This adaptation would explore the same themes of humility, collaboration, and interconnectedness in the context of today’s technology-driven world.

Educational Material: „Pen and Inkstand“ could be adapted as educational material for teaching children about the importance of teamwork, humility, and the interconnectedness of all things. Activities, games, or interactive lessons could be designed to emphasize these themes and engage students in the learning process.

Art Installation or Exhibit: An art installation or exhibit could be inspired by „Pen and Inkstand,“ showcasing various artistic interpretations of the story’s themes and the pen and inkstand characters. This adaptation could encourage visitors to reflect on the importance of collaboration and interconnectedness in their own lives and the world around them.

Though specific examples of adaptations of „Pen and Inkstand“ are limited, the story’s themes and moral lessons offer many opportunities for creative reinterpretation and exploration across various media. By adapting the tale in different forms, we can continue to share Andersen’s messages of humility, cooperation, and interconnectedness with new generations of readers and audiences

Adaptions of the fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

„The Pen and the Inkstand“ by Hans Christian Andersen has inspired several adaptations and retellings across various media. Here are a few examples:

„The Magic Pencil“ by Eve Titus: This children’s book retells the story of the pen and the inkstand in a slightly different way. In this version, a young boy named Peter receives a magic pencil that can draw anything he imagines. However, the pencil becomes spoiled and arrogant, and Peter must learn to teach it a lesson about humility.

„Inkheart“ by Cornelia Funke: This young adult novel features a protagonist named Meggie who discovers that her father has the ability to bring characters from books to life by reading aloud. However, this power has unintended consequences, and Meggie must navigate a world where fictional characters can enter reality. The story’s themes of the power of storytelling and the relationship between the writer and their characters are reminiscent of „The Pen and the Inkstand.“

„The Inkwell and the Quill“ by Elizabeth Grayson: This romance novel retells the story of the pen and the inkstand as a love story between two writers, each represented by the titular objects. The novel explores themes of creativity, collaboration, and the relationship between artists and their craft.

„The Ink and the Pen“ by You Jin: This short animated film reimagines the story of the pen and the inkstand as a conflict between two characters in a hand-drawn animation. The film explores themes of collaboration, creativity, and the relationship between the animator and their tools.

Overall, „The Pen and the Inkstand“ has inspired a variety of adaptations that explore different aspects of the original story’s themes and ideas.

Summary of the plot

„Pen and Inkstand“ is a lesser-known fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen that tells the story of a prideful pen and a humble inkstand, which reside on the desk of a poet. The pen believes itself to be the most important object on the desk, responsible for creating masterpieces, while the inkstand tries to remind the pen that they both play crucial roles in the creative process.

As the tale unfolds, the pen and inkstand engage in conversations about their pasts, revealing that the inkstand was once part of a mighty oak tree, and the pen was created from the feather of a graceful swan. Both the oak tree and the swan had their own stories, reflecting different aspects of nature.

Throughout their interactions, the pen and inkstand learn valuable lessons about humility, the importance of recognizing one’s own role in a greater context, and the interdependence of all things in life. The story encourages readers to reflect on the value of collaboration and the significance of every element involved in the creative process.

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Backgrounds to fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

„Pen and Inkstand“ is a short story written by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875). Andersen is best known for his fairy tales, which have been translated into numerous languages and have inspired various adaptations in different forms of media. Some of his most famous tales include „The Little Mermaid,“ „The Ugly Duckling,“ „The Emperor’s New Clothes,“ and „The Snow Queen.“

Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, Denmark, in 1805, and he grew up in poverty. Despite his humble beginnings, Andersen had a vivid imagination and a strong desire to become famous. He eventually moved to Copenhagen to pursue a career in the arts. After struggling to find his niche, Andersen turned to writing and found success with his fairy tales.

Andersen’s fairy tales often explore themes of love, beauty, innocence, and human nature, and they frequently feature fantastic elements and moral lessons. He is renowned for his ability to captivate readers with his imaginative storytelling and vivid characters while delivering a deeper meaning or message.

„Pen and Inkstand“ is one of Andersen’s lesser-known stories, but it shares the same elements of wonder and moral lessons found in his more famous works. In this story, Andersen delves into the creative process, the role of the artist, and the importance of humility. As with many of his tales, „Pen and Inkstand“ can be appreciated by both children and adults, offering different levels of meaning and interpretation for each reader.

Interpretations to fairy tale „Pen and inkstand“

„Pen and Inkstand“ by Hans Christian Andersen can be interpreted in several ways. Here are a few key interpretations:

Pride and Humility: The tale serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and the dangers of pride. Both the pen and the inkstand are proud of their roles in the creative process and fail to see the bigger picture. They both claim responsibility for the poet’s creations, highlighting the human tendency to take credit for achievements that may be beyond our control. In contrast, the poet’s reflections emphasize humility and the recognition of a higher power that guides and shapes our abilities and accomplishments.

The Creative Process: The story provides a unique perspective on the creative process by giving voice to the tools used in artistic expression. The pen and the inkstand represent different aspects of this process – the inkstand being the inspiration or the raw material, and the pen being the means by which that inspiration is brought to life. The debate between the pen and inkstand serves as a metaphor for the ongoing exploration of where creativity truly originates – from within the artist, the tools they use, or an external source.

The Role of the Artist: Through the metaphor of the violinist and his instruments, Andersen contemplates the role of the artist in their creations. While it is easy for audiences to become captivated by the beauty of the work itself and forget the artist behind it, the story reminds us that the artist is the one who channels and directs the creative force. However, it also emphasizes that artists should remain humble, acknowledging that their talents are gifts from a higher power.

Collaboration and Interdependence: The story subtly addresses the concept of collaboration and interdependence, as both the pen and the inkstand are essential for the poet’s work. This can be extrapolated to the broader context of human endeavors, where individual components, ideas, and talents come together to create something larger and more meaningful. Recognizing the value of each part in a collaborative process can lead to a deeper appreciation of the whole.

Overall, „Pen and Inkstand“ explores themes of pride, humility, creativity, artistic responsibility, and collaboration through a seemingly simple yet profound conversation between the tools of artistic expression.

Summary of the plot

„Pen and Inkstand“ is a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen that takes place in a poet’s study, where an inkstand and a pen engage in a debate about their importance in the creative process. The inkstand boasts about the extraordinary creations that emerge from it, like the emotions, characters, and scenes it helps the poet bring to life on paper. However, the pen claims that it’s the one that truly writes and transforms thoughts into words, while the inkstand merely provides the liquid to make it possible.

One evening, after attending a concert, the poet returns home, inspired by the performance of a skilled violinist. The music produced by the violinist evoked a range of emotions and sensations, from the gentle murmur of water drops to a storm raging through a forest. The violin and bow seemed to play effortlessly, making it easy for the audience to forget the masterful musician behind them. Reflecting on this, the poet writes an essay titled „The Master and the Instruments,“ musing on the idea that humans are mere instruments in the hands of a higher power, to whom all the glory should be given.

When the poet leaves the room, the pen and inkstand continue their argument, each believing they were being praised in the essay. The pen thinks the inkstand should realize that the words were meant to mock its vanity, while the inkstand believes the satire was aimed at the pen. Satisfied with their witty comebacks, they both fall asleep, while the poet remains awake, filled with inspiration and a deep understanding of the true source of creativity. The story concludes by reinforcing the message that all glory should be attributed to the divine force that guides artistic expression.

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