T h e C o u n t r y A u t h o r

The last two weeks I talked about the WHO (the author) and the WHAT (the genre). This week I will discuss the WHERE (the place where you hang your author hat). This writing space could be a small table in the corner of the family room, a fancy L-shaped desk in the den, or even a seat at the local library. No matter where you plant yourself and your imagination, here are a few hints to keep those creative juices flowing.

* Designating a specific area trains your mind to get to work. The act of sitting down at your desk or table cues your brain to focus on the task of writing, much like the bell at school tells students it’s time to get to class.

* Atmosphere is a great motivator. If you write historical fiction, making a desk out of an old door or surrounding yourself with antiques will feed the imagination. Hanging pictures on the wall of places, people, and events pertinent to your story will help keep you inspired.

* A reliable computer (desk top or lap top) with a good word processing program is a must. I use MicroSoft Word which enables me to format my manuscript, track changes, and check spelling. It also comes with a built-in thesaurus.

* Keep plenty of office supplies on hand: computer paper, replacement toner for your printer, note paper, pencil, and pens.

* Reference books: Keep a dictionary, thesaurus, and even a road map at your disposal.  There are many good books about the writing craft that will help you hone your skills. Those that teach plot and structure, character development, and self-editing are especially good to have on hand as well as books about the setting and era of your story.

* Adequate storage space: You’ll need a place to house your supplies and reference books. This is no problem if you have a den, but if space is limited, all you’ll need is a small book shelf or a couple of bins.  Consider purchasing a crafting tote on wheels. They’re large enough to carry a lap top computer and several books, have lots of pockets where you can store notebooks, paper, etc., and are mobile so you can take your “office” with you.

Remember, you can write anywhere. Always keep a note pad and a pen or pencil with you so that when ever an opportunity to write presents itself, or if you’re hit with an inspiring idea, you’ll be ready.

Here’s a list of some great writing spaces:

• On the bus commuting to and from work.
• A doctor’s waiting room.
• In the park during your lunch hour.
• The food court at the mall–one of the best places to people watch. Good for character development.
• In a garden.
• Hotel lobbies.
• Libraries.
• Coffee houses.
• A quiet spot overlooking a river.
• Near an old building, church, or temple.
• At an airport.
• Living room in the middle of the night when you can’t sleep.
• Fire look-out towers. I hear you can rent them when not in use. Talk about solitude!
• Lounge areas at book stores.
• A court room while in session (if open to the public).
• A vista point along a “safe” stretch of highway.

Do you have a favorite place to write? If so, please share it.