It's the story behind the knife that fascinates me. Usually it's the maker himself or herself. The tale of his struggle, his passion, his journey to seek near-perfection in steel, and his undying quest to produce the best for recipients of his creations.
I find such dedication of knifemakers utterly captivating. It tells of their hard-won battles against frustration, boredom and endless hours of loneliness in their sometimes dimly lit workshops, and finally a knife that says it all.
I like to own a piece of that kind of devotion to the craft by an unknown and an unheralded knifemaker. Perhaps he will rest easy at the end of the day, knowing someone like me faraway appreciating his hardwork and dedication. And I will silently drink a toast to his good health and continued success.