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Brian's avatar

I must agree with Lorelei— the siren—-a little background chatter is ok. But it doesn’t take much to exceed the threshold. The idea of little nooks among the muted maelstrom is compelling. But I find inspiration in music. I might start with something eclectic but ultimately, when fingers rest on keyboard, instrumental or jazz or even opera are most helpful to me. If the score is sentimental but not too bold it’s helpful. I did enjoy Spanish guitar at one time, but of late it seems to have devolved into technical competition—impressive, but not so inspiring.

Reading a bit of poetry before the endeavor can juice the mill.

I wish I had the ability to work amid the hustle of life, but confess I’m incapable.

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Meta Wagner's avatar

Love the idea of reading poetry beforehand to get you in an inspired frame of mind. Thanks, Brian!

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Lorelei Jonason's avatar

I like having a quiet, chill atmosphere to write in. I am still searching for the kind of sit-in cafe that has lots of little seating nooks and crannies in my town. A little chatter in the background can blend together into a kind of white noise, but Starbucks is just too loud for me. The phrase "I can't hear myself think" comes to mind.

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Meta Wagner's avatar

Yes to the nooks and crannies to serve as a barrier against too much noise. I suppose time of day might make a difference, too (tho' Starbucks always seems busy). Thanks, Lorelei!

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Haley's avatar

I could write in the eye of a tornado thanks to my rather chaotic upbringing, but it sucks to not have noise as an excuse!

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Meta Wagner's avatar

Ha! Interesting how the down side of all that chaos brought about a positive for your writing. Thanks, Haley!

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