| THE EPISTOLARIAN |

Today the Skull and Crossbones seals is released, and since it is one of the most misunderstood symbols in Western art, I thought it would be fitting to dedicate an entire email to it's rich history and symbolism.

Today the skull and crossbones is most often associated with pirates, poison, and danger. Yet for much of its history, it was a reminder of mortality as a way to inspire more mindful living.

I've long been drawn to the tradition of memento mori, the Latin phrase meaning "remember that you must die." After my friend Michelle passed away in high school, mortality felt forefront in a way that felt deeply sad, but also made me want to live more fully. This is the power of memento mori.

Throughout the Roman world, skulls appeared in funerary sculpture and mosaic. They were later adopted by Renaissance and Baroque artists, particularly in the Dutch vanitas tradition, where skulls were painted alongside flowers, extinguished candles, watches, books, and soap bubbles. Together these objects formed a meditation on time, beauty, and the transience of earthly life.

The skull was never intended to be morbid. It was philosophical.

The addition of crossed bones deepened the symbol's meaning. Human bones, especially the crossed tibias beneath the skull, created a complete emblem of mortality while also making the image instantly recognizable. Crossed forms have long suggested balance and finality in visual language, making the idea of mortality more punctuated.

The pirate's Jolly Roger is perhaps its most famous modern appearance of the skull and crossbones together, though by then the image already carried centuries of cultural meaning. Pirates borrowed it precisely because everyone recognized it.

Awareness of mortality has a way of clarifying priorities. It encourages us to notice beauty while it is before us, to savor each moment, and to tell those we love how we feel while we have time.

I hope this seal invites a deeper contemplation of life's preciousness, while also giving you a few more options for moodier autumn letters in the coming months.

The Book Is Now Available for Pre-Order

You may reserve your copy here:

Pre-Order The Handwritten Life: The Art of Letter Writing & Wax Seals
https://hoffmanmediastore.com/product/the-handwritten-life-the-art-of-letter-writing-wax-seals/

Thank you, as always, for being part of this journey. Your support of my work, my letters, and this community has made moments like this possible. Dreams come true!

The Second Generation Helix Edition

You may notice the Second Edition Étui, The Helix Edition, on the cover. I don't know whether it will still be available by the time the book is published, but I rather like the thought of some collectors owning both the book and the object that appears on its cover.

As always, collectors receive priority access to future releases, including new Pennies and Ring Borders.

The special rings for the étui are also no available to everyone. These are compatible with all étuis: the first edition, second edition and Kitty Book Pawn (almost sold out).

Love,

Kathryn Hastings