Inspired by the Mississippi: Mark Twain Limited Writers Editions from Montblanc

Every year since 1992, Montblanc pays tribute to great writers whose works have become part of world literature, with the creation of a new Limited Writers Edition. The stories these authors tell are as different as the lives they led.

In commemoration of the centenary of Mark Twain’s death, Montblanc has dedicated its Limited Writers Edition 2010 to one of America’s greatest novelists. The uniquely crafted writing instrument is a fitting homage to the creator of such classics as “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”.

About the Author

Born and christianed Samuel Langhorne Clemens in 1835, he achieved fame as a writer under the literary pseudonym Mark Twain. The name originated from his experiences as a steersman on the Mississippi – back then, the term was used to indicate two fathoms (3.6 meters) of water, the depth needed for a boat’s safe passage.

Considered as the founder of Modern American literature, Twain was a vocal opponent of slavery and racial segregation. His works were socially critical yet entertaining novels and short stories, which inspired generations of authors. It was “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”, published in 1884, which became his ultimate masterpiece and earned him worldwide reputation as a literary genius. The story of a young runaway and black slave who, on a small raft on the Mississippi, proved that friendship and trust can break down all racial barriers. This work is without a doubt the milestone in Twain’s legacy and is still regarded as relevant and pioneering to this day.

The Montblanc Limited Writers Edition Mark Twain is entirely inspired by the works of the legendary writer and his Southern roots, apparent in many of his works. The sinuous curving lines on the cap and barrel of the writing instrument, made of deep blue precious resin, are inspired by the Mississippi and its shallow waves. It was this imposing “Ol’ Man River” that captivated Twain and influenced him throughout his life.

The top of the cap is shaped to resemble the steamboat chimneys, whose steam is illustrated by ivory-colored precious resin. The clip is formed by a stylised jaw’s harp, a musical instrument that was popular in the Southern States during Twain’s lifetime. Beneath the clip, the cap ring is marked with the author’s signature as well as the limitation number. Finally, the delicately designed 18 K gold nib is engraved with two fathoms used in former times as an indication for the depth under the keel of a sails boat.