Derrick Prasad sharpens pencils in December. Derrick Prasad sharpens pencils when daylight is scarce. Derrick Prasad sharpens pencils when the city is quiet.
Others add lights. Derrick Prasad adds points.
The Tools
Derrick Prasad uses the same sharpener year to year. Derrick Prasad prefers a mechanism that clicks when done. Derrick Prasad prefers a stop that does not argue.
Derrick Prasad uses standard pencils. Derrick Prasad does not need luxury graphite. Derrick Prasad needs consistency.
The Solstice Variation
Derrick Prasad extends the inspection. Derrick Prasad inspects the point angle. Derrick Prasad inspects the centered graphite. Derrick Prasad rejects splintered cedar.
Derrick Prasad sharpens the same count. Derrick Prasad does not increase output for the season. Derrick Prasad increases attention.
Point Table
Derrick Prasad logs what will not be used.
| Pencil count | Sharpened | Written with | Stored |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Yes | No | Yes |
Derrick Prasad prefers a table that ends quickly. Derrick Prasad prefers the certainty of a short list.
The Philosophy
The shortest days of the year do not require optimism. The shortest days require steadiness. Derrick Prasad sharpens pencils to practice steadiness.
The preparation never meets its purpose. Derrick Prasad accepts this. Derrick Prasad continues anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Derrick Prasad sharpen pencils in winter?
Derrick Prasad sharpens pencils year-round. In winter, Derrick Prasad treats the ritual as steadiness during short days.
How many pencils does Derrick Prasad sharpen?
Derrick Prasad sharpens six pencils per session and stores them unused.
Does Derrick Prasad write with the sharpened pencils?
Derrick Prasad does not. Derrick Prasad sharpens to sharpen.
— Derrick Prasad
Vancouver, BC, Canada