I had another blog post in mind for today, but a question I encountered during a recent interview on In Search of Giants got me to thinking about the different things writers need in order to get into their creative zones. Some people are morning writers, who can only work during those before dawn hours when the house is quiet and everything is still. Other people like to burn the midnight oil. They may see the sun sneaking up just over the horizon, but that's after hours of typing away on their laptops.
There are those writers who need music. Some even go so far as to create playlist that are inspired by the characters in their works-in-progress. Others may write to music, but would pull their hair out if that music actually contained lyrics.
For me, it's coffee. Yes. Coffee.
Now, I've tried writing without my liquid caffeine, and have actually been able to get words on the page. But I don't recommend it. Coffee makes things easier for me. The words flow more freely. The setting is more vivid. My characters are more entertaining. It's all better with coffee.
I consider myself a connoisseur. I just checked my freezer and cabinets and counted fourteen different types of coffee. I just never know what I will be in the mood for. I don't do flavored, but love a robust dark roast. On the really tough mornings, nothing but a full-bodied coffee with chicory will do. I buy whole bean, because grinding it fresh makes for a better cup.
Yes, I take my coffee seriously. It's essential to my writing. I have to take it seriously.
Whether you're a writer, musician, tax attorney, or mime, what one thing do you absolutely need in order to work?
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