Computers,
typewriters, pens. What would we expect to be a modern world writer’s tool?
Never mind that. Habits, or mannerisms, which are peculiar to each of our
literary idols, are more interesting.
Rumor
says Alexandre Dumas, the father of “The Count of Monte Cristo” and “The Three
Musketeers”, would never stop until he was done with a work. He did not like to
be interrupted; therefore, he simply got undressed and handed his servant all
his garments.
Some
writers are known for working under the influence. Drugs, alcohol, and herbs
were fuels for some artists’ minds. On the other hand, Balzac was a harsh
abstemious; not concerning coffee, though.
Insects
could be a problem when writing, especially for Truman Capote, who would make sure
of the absence of these creatures in his area. Not a problem for Pablo Neruda,
apparently. It is said the poet could write in any circumstance, as long as he
had green ink at his disposal.
Sitting
down to write? Not necessary. In fact, “The Miserables” and “Mrs. Dalloway”
seem to be partners in the stand up literature, since Victor Hugo and Virginia
Woolf weren’t big fans of chairs while working; they would rather stand. So
would the Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. And it looks like Niestzsche would agree:
“The sedentary life (das sitzfleisch—literally “sitting meat”) is the very sin
against the Holy Spirit. Only thoughts reached by walking have value.”
(cabinetmagazine.org)
At
night, in the morning, either dressed or undressed, the fact is many authors
have developed different quirks. I’m not sure mine are so peculiar. Let’s see —
this is the first time ever my own idiosyncrasies are disclosed:
As
for the time, since I deal with a lot besides writing, any time will do. As
long as I have an insight. That means my note pad is my inseparable companion.
You never know when ideas are to come.
When
I’m at my office I start off by checking my email, my Facebook, and replying to
messages. Second step, I chose a song — I will eventually turn it off because
it will, undoubtedly, bother me — then I type.
Water
is a must. Actually, liquids are necessary. If its morning, coffee, juice, or
tea are very appreciated. At night, bourbon, whiskey, or wine are favorites —
not all at once. Part of the ritual is to pick the drink, which will be one or
two for the night.
After
the first draft, the text needs to rest. This post, for instance, will not be
submitted as soon as I’m done, which means: if I have a deadline, I’ll start
early so I can give it the repose. It’s like putting the work in a drawer,
except a virtual one, after it has dealt with me for long minutes, sometimes
hours; they, as well, deserve some time off.
Back
to the period issue, I love the night. When the sky is dark, the city is quiet.
I hear a train, some cars, and dogs barking. But there is no loud music played
by the neighbor, no one will call or stop by, and if there is such thing as an
aura, or maybe a god of literature, I’m quite sure they are active at night.
Don’t ask me why!
And
finally, in case you were wondering, it’s time to learn: I write totally
dressed up. No. In fact, living in a tropical country makes me sit as
comfortably dressed as possible and still look descent in case someone knocks
on my door. Right! Not at night.
It’s
common sense writing is a lonely activity. Not that we are lonely creatures not
willing to interact — okay, sometimes we are. The point is: each individual has
a way, a method, idiosyncrasies.
What
are yours?
Follow
me: @libaniodantas
Facebook:
ana.luiza.libanio
I feel very ordinary after reading this LOL!
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