Photo: Word Processor from Rahady
In a dream world, I have a writing room lined with books. I have a Victorian writing desk and an ergonomic chair on wheels which allows me to float around the room at my leisure. A large jar of jelly beans sits next to the computer. In one corner of the room, is a coffee making machine which makes the most delectable cappuccinos in the world. Through the window I have a view of rolling hills in the distance, with my garden full of flowers, birds and hedgehogs surrounding the house. A huge crystal vase of scented flowers sits on another small table, and a sign reading ‘Do Not Disturb’ hangs on the door.
But I’m based in reality, and my home doesn’t afford the luxury of such a space – and neither do my teenage daughters! I have read a variety of ideas on this topic, and many articles recommend that a writer finds a dedicated spot in the house so as declare yourself as a serious writer to those around you.
However, I’ve also read interviews with established authors who say that they don’t have a dedicated space, and instead use the corner of the kitchen or dining room table. And remember, these are established authors.
As for my writing habit, I have a Victorian, marble-topped washstand in the lounge which I use as my desk to keep writing paraphernalia on, and also underneath in fabric covered box files. However, I tend to use the sofa with my laptop on my knee, or my bedroom. The latter is the most private space a my 17yr old is at 6th form college as studies at home 3 mornings or afternoons a week. I like to listen to classical music, or my current ‘love’, the Seahorses on my ipod.
Space for me isn’t a premium, but rather the space in my head where ideas can form and grow into interesting characters and plot lines, is. Space to think can be found almost anywhere, and as writers, we mustn’t believe we can’t write unless we have the ideal space to do it in. Some people may be lucky enough to have such a dream, but a lot of us will be happy just to have the time and peace to write in.
Hang onto your dreams, dear friends, and write wherever and whenever you can.
Happy Word Flow One & All.
Hemmie Martin 
I write anywhere I can, always escaping from where everyone else is, or when they're not around, sometimes just escaping domestic guilt, inspiration can't always wait for tidiness (especially if its not the room I'm using).
Then there's the notebook, I could write in a shopping queue if necessary, I snatch moments everywhere and love a couple of hours between teaching students, where no one is expecting me or waiting for me, but as I freelance, I just find the nearest cafe.
I wrote parts of my first novel while sitting in an all day French class surrounded by 24 other students, I so get it, time and space are a premium, I just put up my imaginary wall and get going 🙂 Great post, thanks and good luck with your book. You are an inspiration.
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Hello Claire, lovely to hear from you.
I'm impressed by your ability to put up an imaginary brick wall. I wish I could be more like you rather than needing space, or using my ipod to block out the world.
I also wish I could write in a cafe as you do – I think I'm too intrigued by other peoples lives – a nicer way of saying that I'm nosy!!
Thank you for your kind comments< I truly appreciate your support and encouragement.
Hemmie.
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