Where to write: Garret or Cafe?

    I began my writing career typing on a Commodore 64 in a corner of my bedroom. After my son left for college, I moved into his room (boy was he surprised when he came back for winter break…), and enjoyed the quiet and seclusion there.

    But a few years ago when I was under deadline—and had already planned a trip to Disneyland with the family—I found myself writing at a café table on Main Street. While my kids headed for their favorite rides, I ignored the crowds, the noise, and the commotion, and amazingly, was able to focus on my story.

    From that I learned this: I can write anywhere. I don’t need a garret or a coffee shop, a quiet bedroom or a table at Disneyland, to write. In fact, no matter where I go, each location offers something no doubt finds its way into my book. Except Hawaii. By the time I’ve had my third pina colada, I can’t even remember the alphabet.

Here are some suggestions for places to write that you may not have thought of:

1.    Hospital cafeteria. Think about all the drama that’s going on at a hospital and you’re right in the middle of it! And if you need medical advice, just grab a nearby nurse or doctor on lunch break and grill them!

2.    Airport waiting room. Absorb some of that glamorous jet-setting crowd and writer your book as you watch passengers come and go. You may even spot a movie star you can weave into your plot.

3.    Hotel lobby. Find a comfy chair at a hotel like the Claremont or Mark Hopkins, pull out your laptop, and write your book in the lush surroundings of upscale accommodations. Need a latte while you work? Drop by the hotel coffee shop and pick up a pick-me-up to keep you going.

4.    University library. I used to hang out at my university library to meet smart guys, but now it’s the perfect place to pen your novel—and have access to all those resources you might need along the way. Plus, you’re in good company, with the works of your favorite authors.

5.    Secret Passageway. Find an old mansion, do a little wall-tapping, and find yourself a secret passageway. Then hide yourself away and don’t come out until that book is done (or the residents come home.) Talk about atmosphere!

6.    DMV or Post office lines. Instead of wasting your time waiting for the next available clerk, write your next chapter on your portable, lightweight iPad. Tap into that seething emotion from other line-waiters and your story will be filled with passion.

7.    Jail. If you can’t get yourself arrested, you can at least find a spot in the waiting room to write that dramatic action scene. Plus, you’ll find lots of character archetypes and may even overhear some good plot twists.

So what’s your favorite place to write?

Comments

[harvee]

Ha, ha. I like the last two choices. It's always an excuse if you have to hunt too hard to find the right writing place.

[penny warner]

Hi Harvee, I agree - if I'm looking for the perfect place, I know I'm just stalling...

[Dana]

I was shocked the first time I tried writing at our local coffee shop and found it oddly easy to focus on the writing... Thanks for this, Penny, it is actually a very inspiring (and funny) post!

[penny warner]

HI Dana,
The more distractions, the more we tune out?
Some of my students actually study with the TV on...or do they???

[Camille Minichino]

I definitely need background commotion. Things haven't been the same since my cousins got out of jail.

[Staci]

These are some great places to write -- especially the hospital, hotel lobby, and airport. I'll just remember to stay away from the pina coladas!

[penny warner]

Camille, hilarious! Nice to have relatives in special places.

[penny warner]

Staci,
You can have a pina colada anywhere! (Except maybe in jail.)

[rita lakin]

Hey, how many of you can top this? Having an MRI, in hospital. The noise was driving me crazy so I zoned out and wrote a chapter of my book in my head. Then quick like a bunny, when I hopped off the table, I wrote it all down before I forgot it.

Loved your blog. See mine on Friday
tee hee
Rita

[penny warner]

Rita, I think we have a winner! You put me to shame. Can't wait to read the chapter!

[Michael A. Black]

Penny, your comment about getting arrested brought back on an old memory. We had this college student girl in custody and when I went in to check on her, she wanted a pen and paper to "record her thoughts." I told her that possession of such items were prohibited in her cell. I hope she had as good a memory as Rita.

[penny warner]

Hi Michael,
Goodness, can't write in prison! What's the world coming to?