From 1952 to 1967, Japan experienced a "Golden Age" of pencil production, driven by post-war economic recovery and a surge in education. This period saw a proliferation of high-quality pencils, featuring innovative designs, premium materials like incense cedar, and meticulous craftsmanship. Manufacturers like Mitsubishi, Tombow, and Pentel competed fiercely, resulting in a diverse range of pencils catering to writing, drawing, and even carpentry. This era solidified Japan's reputation for producing some of the world's finest pencils, a legacy that continues to influence pencil manufacturing today.
This YouTube video showcases a Toshiba BW-2112, a Japanese typewriter from the 1980s. The video demonstrates the typewriter's various functions, including typing in Japanese using katakana and hiragana, as well as English letters and numbers. The presenter highlights the machine's unique features like the half-space key, margin settings, and correction capabilities. They also demonstrate changing the ribbon and the overall operation of the typewriter, emphasizing its compact and portable design.
HN users generally enjoyed the video showcasing the Toshiba BW-2112 typewriter, praising its design, sound, and the creator's obvious enthusiasm. Several commenters reminisced about using typewriters, highlighting the satisfying tactile experience and the focus they demanded. Some discussed the typewriter's specific features, like the unique key spacing and the half-space key. A few users expressed interest in finding a similar model, and others shared links to resources for typewriter enthusiasts. One compelling comment thread debated the practicality of using vintage typewriters today, considering factors like maintenance, ribbon availability, and the lack of editing capabilities.
Talks of a potential $60 billion merger between Nissan and Honda, aimed at creating an automotive powerhouse to rival Toyota, ultimately collapsed due to a clash of corporate cultures and control issues. Nissan, still grappling with internal turmoil following the Carlos Ghosn scandal, was wary of Honda's proposal which would have effectively put Honda in the dominant position. Key disagreements arose concerning leadership structure, operational control, and the future of Nissan's existing alliance with Renault. These irreconcilable differences, coupled with differing views on future technology development strategies, led to the abandonment of the merger discussions.
HN commenters generally agree that cultural clashes were the primary downfall of the Nissan/Honda merger talks. Several pointed to Nissan's internal struggles and legacy issues as a major impediment, suggesting Honda was wise to walk away. Some speculated that Nissan's desire for a more dominant role in the merged entity, despite its weaker position, further complicated negotiations. A few commenters questioned the overall strategic rationale of the merger, particularly given the differing strengths and market focuses of the two companies. Finally, there's some skepticism about the "leak" of the breakdown, with suggestions it might be a strategic move by one or both parties.
Japan's scientific output has declined in recent decades, despite its continued investment in research. To regain its position as a scientific powerhouse, the article argues Japan needs to overhaul its research funding system. This includes shifting from short-term, small grants towards more substantial, long-term funding that encourages risk-taking and ambitious projects. Additionally, reducing bureaucratic burdens, fostering international collaboration, and improving career stability for young researchers are crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. The article emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity and promoting a culture of scientific excellence to revitalize Japan's research landscape.
HN commenters discuss Japan's potential for scientific resurgence, contingent on reforming its funding model. Several highlight the stifling effects of short-term grants and the emphasis on seniority over merit, contrasting it with the more dynamic, risk-taking approach in the US. Some suggest Japan's hierarchical culture and risk aversion contribute to the problem. Others point to successful examples of Japanese innovation, arguing that a return to basic research and less bureaucracy could reignite scientific progress. The lack of academic freedom and the pressure to conform are also cited as obstacles to creativity. Finally, some commenters express skepticism about Japan's ability to change its deeply ingrained system.
The article warns against accidentally taking the Tokyo Chuo Rapid Line all the way to its terminus, Takao Station, a mountainous area with limited transportation options, especially late at night. While Takao is a pleasant hiking destination, those intending to stay in Tokyo will find themselves stranded if they miss the last train back. The article advises checking the train's destination diligently and suggests alternative routes back to central Tokyo if stuck, including local Chuo Line trains, buses to Hachioji Station, and, as a last resort, expensive taxis. It emphasizes the importance of planning ahead and being aware of the train schedule to avoid this "station of despair."
Hacker News commenters discuss the impracticalities of the article's advice for someone stranded at Takao Station, the final stop on Tokyo's Chuo Rapid Line. Several point out the lack of available lodging, especially during peak seasons like autumn leaf viewing, making the suggestion to stay overnight unrealistic. Commenters also highlight the limited dining options and late-night closures, contradicting the article's portrayal of abundant food choices. The general sentiment is that the article fails to grasp the reality of the situation, offering unhelpful and potentially misleading information to those unfamiliar with the area. Some suggest the real "despair" is the crowded train ride back during rush hour, while others share personal anecdotes of similar experiences and offer more practical advice, like checking train schedules in advance and considering alternative transportation. The lack of late-night buses is also a recurring theme, emphasizing the limited options available to stranded passengers.
A lonely giant sunfish at the Aquamarine Fukushima aquarium in Japan, who kept mistaking divers for jellyfish (its usual prey), has been given cardboard cutouts of humans for company. The cutouts, placed at the tank's viewing window, aim to acclimate the sunfish to human presence and prevent it from repeatedly bumping into the glass, injuring itself. Staff hope this will help the fish distinguish between humans and its food, improving its wellbeing in captivity.
HN users generally found the story of the lonely sunfish heartwarming. Some expressed skepticism that the fish recognized the cardboard cutouts as "friends," suggesting its behavior was more likely driven by curiosity or a general attraction to stimuli. Others pointed out the anthropomorphic nature of the narrative, cautioning against projecting human emotions onto animals. A few commenters shared personal anecdotes of keeping fish, emphasizing the importance of enrichment and speculating on the fish's potential loneliness. Several found the cardboard cutout solution clever and amusing, with one user jokingly suggesting adding a QR code for donations. The overall sentiment leaned towards appreciation for the aquarium staff's effort to improve the fish's well-being.
Summary of Comments ( 92 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43243716
Hacker News users discuss the nostalgic appeal of vintage Japanese pencils, some sharing personal experiences and preferences for specific brands like Tombow Mono 100 and Mitsubishi Hi-Uni. Several commenters highlight the article's focus on the manufacturing quality and materials used during this "golden age," noting the superior graphite and wood compared to modern pencils. Others discuss the decline in quality of contemporary pencils and theorize about reasons for this shift, citing factors like cost-cutting measures and changing consumer demand. There's also a brief discussion about the current pencil market, with mentions of Palomino Blackwing pencils as a higher-end modern option. Finally, some users express interest in the broader history of stationery and pencil manufacturing, prompting shared links to relevant resources.
The Hacker News post titled "The Golden Age of Japanese Pencils (2022)" linking to an article on notes.stlartsupply.com has generated several comments discussing various aspects of pencils, Japanese manufacturing, and nostalgia.
One commenter reminisces about the high quality of Japanese stationery they encountered in the 1980s, specifically mentioning Pentel mechanical pencils and fountain pens. They express a sense of disappointment with the perceived decline in the quality of more recent products, speculating about changes in manufacturing processes and materials.
Another commenter focuses on the "Made in Japan" label, suggesting that it once signified quality and precision but has become less reliable over time. They mention personal experiences with products across different categories, including electronics and tools.
A different thread of discussion revolves around the concept of "planned obsolescence." Commenters debate whether this practice is intentionally employed by manufacturers to shorten product lifecycles and boost sales. Some argue that modern pencils are designed to break more easily, while others contend that the focus has shifted towards disposability rather than durability. The changing economics of manufacturing and consumer expectations are also brought up.
The conversation also touches upon the materials used in pencil production, particularly wood and graphite. One commenter notes the historical significance of cedarwood in pencil making and questions the sustainability of current practices. Another commenter mentions the unique qualities of Japanese graphite, contrasting it with other sources and linking its properties to the writing experience.
Several commenters share personal anecdotes about their favorite pencil brands and models, expressing nostalgia for specific products from their childhood or student years. These comments highlight the emotional connection people can have with seemingly mundane objects like pencils. There's a general agreement on the enduring appeal of well-crafted writing instruments.
Finally, some commenters provide additional resources related to pencils, including links to articles and websites dedicated to pencil collecting and history. This contributes to a broader conversation about the cultural significance of pencils and the ongoing interest in their design and manufacture.