A quill pen is a writing instrument made from a feather, typically from a goose or a swan. The hollow shaft of the feather is shaped into a nib, which allows ink to flow onto paper. Quill pens were widely used from the 6th century until the 19th century, before being replaced by metal nibs and modern pens. To use a quill pen, the writer dips the nib into ink, allowing it to absorb the liquid. The flexibility of the quill allows for varied line thickness, making it popular among calligraphers and artists. Quill pens are often associated with historical figures like William Shakespeare and Benjamin Franklin.