Ernest Hemingway, The Art of Fiction No. 21

When I am working on a book or a story I write every morning as soon after first light as possible. There is no one to disturb you and it is cool or cold and you come to your work and warm as you write. You read what you have written and, as you always stop when you know what is going to happen next, you go on from there. You write until you come to a place where you still have your juice and know what will happen next and you stop and try to live through until the next day when you hit it again. You have started at six in the morning, say, and may go on until noon or be through before that. When you stop you are as empty, and at the same time never empty but filling, as when you have made love to someone you love. Nothing can hurt you, nothing can happen, nothing means anything until the next day when you do it again. It is the wait until the next day that is hard to get through.

Disclosure: I've never read a single Hemingway novel. Not because I purposely tried not to, it's just one of those things I never got around to. I have read hills like white elephants, a short story of his and it was a great read. Anyway, I saw this on Daringfireball and though it would be worth a linkup. It's a nice glimpse into his creative process that can be applied to most anything.

Going solo

Despite its prevalence, living alone is one of the least discussed and, consequently, most poorly understood issues of our time.

I listened to this audiobook mostly while running alone on the treadmill. For anyone who doesn't feel compelled to dive headfirst into a committed relationship or has an itch to have their very own fortress of solitude, this book is for you. So many of the points rang true.

Just to be clear, the point is not to become some crazy recluse. It's the fact that modern living now allows for us to live alone, and still be connected to a support group consisting of colleagues, friends and family. Me? I live with a roommate and it's a great living situation, but as soon as my finances allow for it, I will be seeking my very own cave.

I find that I am most productive when I am alone in a quiet room, without the possibility of anyone knocking at my door. I used to feel bad about craving alone time, but it is nice to know that I am part of an ever-expanding majority.

It was fun while it lasted

I posted a comment about how the slow magic album, triangle has satiated my thirst for a new Air France album and then someone replied to my comment and informed me that Air France is no more -- what a drag. 

Super moon indeed

In case you forgot to stick your head on the window during the supermoon, here are a couple of great pics of it.

15 Powerful Things Happy People Do Differently

15. TAKING RESPONSIBILITY vs. BLAMING. They take full ownership over their lives and they rarely use excuses. Happy people understand that the moment you choose to blame some outside forces for whatever it is that happens to you, you are in fact giving all your power away, and they choose to keep the power for themselves and taking responsibility for everything that happens to them.

 Maybe these seem obvious but I bet a lot of people, myself included, could use a refresher. Reason number 15 is one that I've noticed seems to be a problem with a number of people I've worked with in the past, at cubicles, sales floors, classrooms and mirrors.

And I write

Writing isn't easy. The same thing goes for photography or any other creative endeavour. For the better part of my 20s, I worked at a watch repair counter. It was a fun job and I did a number of things during the inevitable hours of downtime. I mean, how many people actually have a wristwatch these days? Back in the early 2000's most people were using their flip phones as watches, and in this world of iPhone and Android smartphones, I'm sure the number has dwindled even farther.

Anyway, I used to write a lot more back then. Don't get me wrong (I use don't get me wrong a lot), I was and am not really a great writer. I'm don't have the vocabulary or flow of a seasoned author, I recycle the same ideas, and I don't understand or respect the concept of grammar -- I just enjoy doing it. I like to think that writing (in a journal at the very least) is a form of rudimentary, free therapy. Something like a release valve for the vinegar inside ones brain.

Lately, I've been using this application called day one as a tool to keep a daily journal. The verdict is still out if it's just a bit of app lust or if it's something that I will continue to do on a daily basis. There are plenty of writing apps available but I like using day one simply because there is a version of the application for the mac, iPhone and iPad, which are three platforms that this Apple fanboy uses everyday. It makes for frictionless way to start writing. There are likely other apps that accomplish the same thing, with more features and a lower pricetag, but I've already bought this app and writing should be a rather simple thing to do. 

The point is, I've been writing everyday and it has kept me a little more level headed. Most people that know me, wouldn't think that I have any underlying issues. That's not true for me and I'm certain it's not true for you or anyone else on the planet (at least in selfish North America), so put down that shiny, silver-plated shame stick (that's not a nickname for my wang) and keep your judgements to yourself.

So, what is the point of this longwinded rant? Well, I guess the point of it, is just that. It's great to keep a daily journal but there is something nice about writing a 'blog' like I used to -- sharing my rants with the world. I don't know if anyone will read this, but I do like the idea that someone other than myself might. I'm trying to actually take my own advice (see: link to what's on you todo list) and cultivate new and old relationships. I've been negligent with that. It's not an overnight change to be sure, breaking down old, negative habits is hard work, but I was able to improve my physical fitness by changing habits. So, this is a first step. Sharing a silly little fart of a thought with some faceless reader and hoping it brings them a little bit of joy, inspiration or whatever.

So, it's May, I'm writing everyday and now I am going to start writing more long form posts just like this one. Please keep your seats in the upright position and if you fill up your vomit bag, simply empty out the contents on the floor and reuse the bag. Keep it green friends.

Everyone is on tumblr these days

Stumbled upon (not using stumbleupon) John Lehmann's tumblr. Not much of a surprise here, just a stream of great photographs.

What is on the top of your todo list?

According to Paul Graham, this is what you should have on your todo list:
Don't ignore your dreams; don't work too much; say what you think; cultivate friendships; be happy.

Also, check the post written by Bronnie Ware, a palliative nurse that inspired Graham's mantra. After working with sick and dying patients she laid out the five most common regrets. This kind of stuff really affects me these days. I guess I'm starting to grow up -- it only took 30 years. 

So, looks like I gotta reignite / revaluate my dreams, be honest when I deal with others, send e-mails to long, lost friends and eat a block of cheese. 

Don't work. Be hated. Love someone.

Call in sick. Fuck you all. And, I love you. This is one hell of a commencement speech.

Pebble: E-Paper Watch

The latest kickstarter darling is at 5 million dollars.