I want to focus on a particular recollection from when I was just starting to learn calligraphy. As a six-year-old, I was full with interest because it was something new to me. Closing my eyes, I can hear the the gentle sound of the brush rubbing across the rough surface of the paper, as well as the distinct sound of ink being scraped off the edge of the ink stone from all angles and distances throughout the room. Turning pages of the copybook, or flipping papers are like leaves flying off the trees and floating by in the breeze. It was raining outside, while the thick wool felt almost absorbed all the noise, leaving only the comfortable rustling in the very distance. The soft and low voice of my teacher whispering to students to give guidance was also part of the background.
However, the sound that breaks the serenity but also attracts us most is the “ding” sound of the oven far in the kitchen, showing the cookies made by the teacher is ready. That’s when younger students become excited, with sound of shaking or moving chairs and more desired moves of writing.