Where We Write

Sep 13, 2022

Backyard with seating area, umbrella, and native flowers

Does where we write influence the writing? In the past I have had an office (often in the spare bedroom) or a dedicated desk for writing, but would often leave them to camp out on the couch or porch to get my work done.

I’ve been in our current apartment for over a year without a desk, but have gotten more writing done here than any other place I’ve lived. I usually rotate throughout the day between our bedroom, where I sit on the bed while The Notorious KBZ cuddles up against me (to paraphrase Shirley Manson, he’s only happy when he sleeps), in a living room wing chair, at the dining room table, or (most frequently), in our backyard. Our apartment is cozy (real estate lingo for “small”), but the outdoor space makes up for that.

The outdoor couch and chair are both comfortable, the table makes a great desk, and we even have a dining table (not pictured) with benches for added variety in workspaces. This past winter my partner put up a “bubble,” a clear plastic domed tent and put the lawn furniture in it along with a heater. It was the perfect oasis for me, who craves quiet (but not silence) when he writes. The portable speaker made it a great spot for editing (I can listen to music while editing).

I haven’t noticed the difference to the prose written in these different environments. As I finish my memoir, I relish the opportunity to change writing venues and refresh my body and mind with a new seat and view. I have friends who swear by their chair and desk of twenty years, others who clamor for the next residency to reset themselves. I see their points, but for me writing is best when I have a variety of rooms to call home.