Guerilla Writing

Every writer needs a place to write. And every writer has their favorite. But sometimes the usual spot feels uninspiring. Or stifling. Or simply isn't available. What then?

Here are a few of the more creative places and ways I've found to write:

1) IN A HOSPITAL CAFETERIA

You read that right. I wasn't sick. I wasn't visiting anyone. It was late and I needed an out-of-the-way place to get some writing in. They're open late (24 hours) and very spacious! Take your laptop and get to work! (Bonus points if the fountain soda is still available! If not, stop by 7-11 on the way.)

2) IN COURT WITH PAPER AND PENCIL

As a prosecutor, I used to spend a lot of time in court. A LOT of that time was doing nothing. Sitting. Waiting. Nothing left to prepare. No one else to talk to. Boring! So I used to bring a legal pad and a pen. I wrote a full novella that way -- UnNatural . . . Coming Soon!

3) ON THE BUS WITH MY PHONE

Part one of writing on the commute. I didn't have a laptop. I only had my smartphone. But I had google docs and thumbs. Where there's a will, there's a way!

4) ON THE TRAIN

Part two of writing on the commute. This is actually a major reason I took the job the begin with. Forty-five minutes of guaranteed writing every morning and every evening. Built right into my schedule. This is how I got through my novel -- Strange Religion . . . Coming Soon(ish)!

5) AT HOME WITH NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES

Sometimes you just don't want to leave home. Amidst the chaos and the chorus and the fights and the fun, you want to be with the ones you love AND write at the same time. That's what headphones were made for. Go expensive or go cheap. Go high tech or low. Go to Home Depot or the Apple store. But buy something comfortable and cost effective. Then wear the crap out of them while you share space with those you love the most!

What are some of the more creative places and ways you've found to write?