James Joyce said, “In the particular is contained the universal.” Meaning, when you create with specific intent or for a particular person or purpose, you tend to tap into a greater sentiment. Something that ends up resonating with far more people than expected.
When I created that first notebook, I was making it for myself. It was a tool that I needed, a combination of materials and message that I couldn’t find out in the world. Because a tool isn’t just a means to an end. It’s a companion, a sidekick—a partner in creation and craft. One that I would be excited to carry, inspired to use.
In creating the Confidant for myself, it ended up resonating with thinkers all over the planet.
What I eventually realized is that the need I was trying to fulfill wasn't unique to me. We all have ideas. We all have an inner world we're trying to understand, explore, and bring to life. At Baronfig, we believe that what makes humanity special—and beautiful—is this ability to imagine. To think. To create something from nothing. Baronfig was born from that shared desire to connect with ourselves, to explore the inner workings of our minds, and to discover what might be possible.
To this day, I am still surprised and grateful when someone sends a photo of their Baronfig setup or pulls one of our pens out of their pocket as we’re talking. Every time it happens, I'm reminded that something I originally created for myself has found a place in someone else's life. Whether ideating professionally or journaling personally, it's an honor to provide tools that help people think, create, and bring their ideas to life.
And it all started by making something I wished existed. So the next time you find yourself searching for something that isn't there, consider making it yourself. What feels deeply personal to you may turn out to be something the world has been waiting for.
You never know where it could take you.
Joey Cofone
Founder & Designer