More Effort, More Intrigue!
Recent struggles have sometimes felt like battles with my pride. The more effort I invest, the better the outcome. I’ve noticed that some knife sharpeners spend more time observing the knives than actually sharpening them. Of course, it’s not just casual observation; it’s about contemplating which parts to sharpen next and how to correct any deformities. It’s like having a conversation with the knives while sharpening them, which I believe is the essence of true Honkasumi sharpening. Naturally, spending so much time on each knife means I can’t sharpen ten in a day.
One common trait among craftsmen who create exceptional work is stubbornness. While outsiders might see it as obstinacy, for craftsmen, it’s simply a necessary attribute for creating quality work. It stems from pride and confidence in one’s craft. Sharpeners often say, “Doi-san’s knives are tough to sharpen!” They require extra care and attention, which mass producers might avoid. Dedicated sharpeners, however, embrace the challenge and master the knives.
Lately, I’ve found myself becoming more stubborn too. I tend to poke at things that others might find unnecessary or troublesome. They say, “Nobody else bothers with that,” or “Seems like a hassle.” But if something catches my attention, I can’t help but pursue it. If I were to ship something that still bothered me, I’d wonder, “Who’s going to use that?”
I was told that after turning 40, “You stop caring about such things!” But I’ve also been reminded that “It’s important to balance work and personal life.”
On a different note, I’m currently taking a break from website development. I’ll resume in mid-April after I finish migrating servers. As for steel prices, they might fluctuate due to the Olympics, but things should settle afterward.
Hibishugyo
- 2008-04-02
