It is possible, using one’s powers of observation, to deduce the characteristics and motivations of the individual members of the peculiar tribe known as Pen People from their tools. Known to congregate around platters of pasta in centrally-located malls, Pen People are quite ingenious at devising ways to carry their pens and accessories.
Subject 1 is a seasoned forager. Observe how he has accumulated pens of different forms and colors. Not only that, he has appropriated a commercial pen tray for his own use. The same subject also seems to be an ink enthusiast, as the contents of his bag indicate.
Subject 2 is very particular about grooming, as can be seen in his neat arrangement of pens, notebooks and pen repair tools, each with an assigned bag section.
The same subject also displays an unusual level of logic and organization. His pens are in some kind of esoteric arrangement – perhaps alphabetical?
The third subject has a finely tuned sense of aesthetics. This sense is not crucial to survival (“Oh look, what a graceful sabretooth!” is usually followed by a scream and a gurgling, cracking sound) but is highly valued among the Pen People. Note the warm tones of the pen wrap complementing the leather bag’s golden clasp. The bead is a statement of form and function, beautifully keeping the ribbon in place.
Subject four is a stealthy, cunning creature, whom field researchers conjecture might be one of the tribe’s hidden leaders. The extensive use of black across bag interiors, pen case and notebook covers could be proof of that theory.
In the wild, Pen People can pass for other kinds of People. Subject five is a good example of this phenomenon. The thick cotton bag could very well be carried by Green Fashion People, belying the pen wrap with foulard print and mother-of-pearl mosaic ribbon stopper within. This form of mimicry has served the tribe well, allowing members to elude Predators and Pickpockets.
Our last subject belongs to the peculiar subset of Pen People we call Minimalist Pen People. This subset does not carry many pens or notebooks, usually preferring a single representative of each, two at most. While this behavior triggers inquiring looks from other Pen People (“What? You only brought one pen?”), it is not a deterrent to friendly interaction.
If you would like to contribute to our ongoing study, please do. If you have spotted other ways of carrying pens, you can also upload photos for analysis in the comments section.
