Today I was in one of my haunts, doing a bit of writing. Of course I was using a fountain pen. A lady happens by and asks me, “Is that really a fountain pen?” I said that it was. She then asked, “Why would you use one?” Well, in the first place I write upwards of 2500 words per day in one form or another. Do that day after day and the equipment used becomes very important. A fountain pen has much less “drag” across the paper. All this I explained and the lady says, “Why not just use a computer and type it in the first place?”
That last question is much deeper than the first. Everyone has their method of writing. For me, I typically write a story long hand first and then type it into a computer later. This serves two purposes: The first draft can be conducted anywhere, without electricity or a computer. When I type it, it instantly becomes a second draft as I edit on the fly while inputing the text.
But what about that archaic writing instrument, namely the fountain pen? Well, it’s simply cool, for lack of more elegant explanation. Fountain pens require a bit of care and respect. They become heirlooms. They can be messy, but mine have never let me down in that respect. They also take on the character of the writer in terms of the type of pen and ink utilized.
Does it make sense? Not really. It’s one of those quirks that makes us human. Beyond that, I offer no better explanation.
The Bent Page 
I think it’s awesome that you use a fountain pen. I do some writing long hand, myself, although my rought drafts are always written on a computer. For me, pens are for musing, thinking, and journaling. Very specific as to my pen requirements, as well, although I fear the beautiful fountain pen…
I looked you up to see who was commenting on my post, and I found your elegant praise to the fountain pen. I feel exactly the same way–I write with a fountain pen that is special to me because I bought it in Paris, then transfer my work to the computer and automatically go into the editor mode. It’s a left brain/right brain thing I think. Creation with the muse is best done with pen in hand.
I also write with a fountain pen, and I am often asked why on earth I would use one. I am also asked to lend out a pen on occasion — “I need to do some calligraphy,” is usually the request, as if a fountain pen is only for writing calligraphy. Mostly I’m amused by other people’s curiosity about my pens … and I’m always pleased to find other fountain pen lovers!