The Art of Letter Writing in Modern Times

Rachel Syme, author of Syme’s Letter Writer: A Guide to Modern Correspondence, describes correspondence as a leap of faith, filled with the wonder of not knowing if the recipient will respond. Her book, illustrated by Joana Avillez and published by Clarkson Potter Publishers in 2025, underscores the enduring charm of letter writing.

During the early pandemic, Syme discovered this firsthand. Craving connection, she asked her social media followers if they wanted to be pen pals and received 300 responses. Though she couldn’t write to each, this led to the creation of PenPalooza, a letter-exchanging platform now with over 10,000 members.

This initiative revived Syme’s own joy in writing letters. The surprise of opening a mailbox to find creative expressions, honesty, and beautiful writing continues to delight her. These experiences inspired Syme’s Letter Writer, a guide offering tips on selecting a pen pal and crafting engaging letters. It includes inspirational letters from famous writers like Octavia Butler and Zelda Fitzgerald.

Getting Started with a Pen Pal

Finding a pen pal may be easier than you think. Start with family and friends. Or, reach out via social media, suggesting, “Hey, I’d love to write you a letter.” The response might surprise you.

The Weather in Your Letters

Don’t shy away from writing about the weather. Though often seen as mundane, discussing sun or rain can be revealing. Syme quotes South African novelist Bessie Head: “The mood of the weather began to explain many other things for me.”

Beyond Life Updates

Instead of life updates, consider writing prompts. Share your favorite life hack or your most extravagant impulse buy. Get creative. Include hand-drawn maps of your neighborhood, or send personal recipes and Polaroids. You could even create Mad Libs for fun interaction.

Sneaky Surprises in Letters

Consider slipping gifts into your envelopes. Stickers, pressed flowers, or tea bags can add a delightful surprise. Avoid prohibited items, like matchbooks.

Choose Unique Paper

Experiment with different papers. Use postcards, vintage stationery, or even paper napkins. Syme has written on pink legal paper, inspired by Jacqueline Susann.

The Typewriter Touch

If looking for a screen break, consider a typewriter. It can help if you’re concerned about handwriting and offers a tactile writing experience.

Archiving Your Letters

Consider photographing the letters you send. While the correspondence itself forms an archive, photos maintain a personal record.

The Natural End of Correspondence

Syme acknowledges that some correspondences might fade. They might last for a short time or continue for years. As relationships change, it’s important to recognize when the correspondence no longer holds its value. Even if the exchange ends, the initial leap of faith is what makes it meaningful.

This episode of Life Kit was produced by Sam Yellowhorse Kesler and edited by Malaka Gharib. Beck Harlan served as the visual producer. For more insights, listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or subscribe to their newsletter. Follow them on Instagram: @nprlifekit.