Everyone has that perfect spot. Whether it is the worn out corner of your couch where you binge watch your favorite shows or a sunlit chair to curl up with a good book. For me, the perfect ‘writing’ spot is at my breakfast table. I’ve tried many different places including the couch, dining table, and even the comfy chair; inevitably, I come back to the high top table.
It seems as though nothing good is written anywhere else. Sure, it may be passable, but ultimately it falls short of the mark. I am by no means saying that everything produced in this very specific locale is stellar, but when I’m on a role, I generally get my best work done there. And it’s weird. It’s only the one side of the table. No other will do. Now, before everyone starts passing out commendations and pats on the back for finding a spot that works, know this: it is absolutely awful.
The cushions on the bar chairs have all but given up on life. Some days they even try to roost me out all together. I’ve lost count how many times I’ve had tighten hex bolts and resort to wood glue for stripped screws. Also, this table is not old, just out to get me. In addition, the height difference between the keyboard, screen, and me is perfect…for back pain. All of this combined with the fact that I can/have/will sit here for hours at a time, generally result in a very sore keester as well as back and neck pains that can linger for days.
So why put up with it? Because it’s my spot. It is dead center of my house and allows me to still be a part of everything while also being off in my own world (sometimes more literal than figurative). Granted, at times that also ends up being the very reason I get absolutely nothing done. Love the husband, really do, but one of these days, I’m going to get a sign that says “THE WRITER IS IN” or something to that effect. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been nursing the perfect scene, only to have it wisped away by an innocent “How was your day?”.
So, at the end of the day, I guess it is all worth it. Because, here, I feel like I do the most and occasionally even the best writing. Thus, as much of a very real pain as it can be, I stay. I can and do suffer for my art.