If the objects of your pencil box could think…

What if you open your pencil box in a silent classroom and suddenly hear some strange whispers coming from inside? Are these tools chatting or saying something? Have you ever imagined what would they say or think if they could?

Era, the eraser

“I am so tired of cleaning up the pencil’s mistakes. Nobody remembers me when the page looks clean.” Era looks at the pencil, wedged beside the compass, not paying attention, as usual. “Can’t you make fewer errors? Just because I am here, doesn’t mean you can do without paying attention,” says Era. Then it smiles, secretly proud of its ability. “Call me a cleanliness freak if you want, but staying clean is healthy.”

Casie, the compass

I giggle as I gracefully twirl across the page, feeling as though I am doing a contemporary dance, maybe ballet or waltz. I beam at neat circles and semi-circles that I leave behind. Also, you know, if you hold one point steady, anchored to your point of purpose, everything falls into place.’

Sharpa, the sharpener

I can see an anxious grimace on the pencil’s face whenever I approach her. The killer moves, huh? She whimpers, and I almost giggle. I don’t want to hurt her, trust me. I feel bad every time I eat a pencil. But you see, sometimes, you got to be a bit strict to bring out someone’s best.

Reid, the ruler

I know the others, and maybe even the kids, find me boring. After all, what do I do? Just help them create straight lines. I can hear the pencil murmur, “Are we in a military rule, huh?” But don’t they realise that I make everything look in order? No matter what they say, I know I teach them discipline, the line that leads to success.’

Gelly, the glue stick

Basically, I fall in love with everything I touch. They all stick with me. Do they feel I am too clingy? Or messy? No. I bring things together, unity and team work, you know? I combine craft material and create a piece of art. Messy isn’t always bad. Just a little patience, and it might create something beautiful.

Chroma, the crayons

We are the prettiest, I often gush. Do you think I am showing off? No, it is self-love, which is not a bad thing. Haven’t you seen how we make everything bright and beautiful? We fill simple, dull shapes and they overflow with colours. Flowers, sky, trees, rivers, mountains … how would they look in a drawing book without colours? As I always say, don’t show off, but be proud of your special qualities.

So, unlock your imagination and tell me, what would a pencil think?