At last, I have finally been able to have my first straight razor shave. And with minimal harm to my person no less. Just the one nicked spot and a tricky situation around the goatee.

The shave wasn't perfect, which I assume to be down to the angle I held the blade. The movement was smooth, no tugging on hairs, but my face still feels rough when I rub my cheek against the grain. I didn't end up in the emergency room so I'm happy with how it went. If I have any questions it would be this: Are Alum blocks made concentrated witchcraft?

I won't lie, I was a little concerned about the red line that appeared on my face during the tricky situation around my goatee. The one thing I hadn't accounted for in my preparations was the possibility of someone hammering on the bathroom door. Perhaps instead of acquiring a decent strop and brush, my time will be better devoted to making a "Danger! Straight Razor Shaving In Progress" sign.

But my fears were unwarranted; a mere rub of the alum block and a stinging sensation later, and the cut was gone. It was as if it had been erased from existence by some form of devilry.

I look forwarded to my next shave, which will be far more careful, and will begin by politely explaining the dangers of surprising someone that has a blade to their face by hammering on doors.