When I was in high school, I wrote all my journalism stories out longhand before typing them on the computer. It took me a few years before I was really used to crafting words on the computer, and I mentioned above, I still write poetry on paper…

Some habits never die.

Some of my best work has been written while I’ve traveled underground on the Toronto subway system. I’m not sure why, but since I was a teenager it’s been a place where my creativity flows.

Sometimes what I have written is connected to the people I watch moving in and out of the train cars. At other times, it’s been the perfect place to complete a poem that may have started as a single line circling in my head.

Back in college I worked at the local movie theater – one screen, one auditorium, open lobby at the back. From the concession stand I could watch the film. I would often jot down some of my best ideas on the back of some extra folded schedules of upcoming features we would pass out at the end of the evening. This is where some of my best writing was done.

Now, out of college and only dabbling in writing, I still use folded up sheets of paper, the same folds as those old schedules, to take notes from my muse. Something about that folded rectangle draws me back into that place of creativity.

As far as a favorite physical space to write: since the movie theater is now gone and I have moved on in life, I am still searching for that sacred place of maximum creativity.

My best ideas come when I least expect them to. I’ve learned to carry a notebook for just such occasions. I wrote about it on my blog: http://davidakennedy.com/the-most-important-non-digital-tool-for-any-creative/

I used to write free-hand as we. In fact, I still write poetry and lyrics this way, but most everything else gets written via computer.

There’s something more organic and real about actually writing. That’s the advantage of a notebook – it’s portable and you can create a writing spot anywhere.

I admire that you’re having the urge to write, even though a regular space may not be available. I’m kind of jealous because I’ve found I need a regular space. Hence, the space in my office that I’ve carved out…

Thanks for posting. I appreciate your ideas. Keep on writing and share with your readers.

I like to write in long-hand. Maybe in a study room/reading room/library. However, I receive my best ideas when I am playing sports or walking in the outdoors or engaging in activities which require blood, sweat and tears–as the saying goes. I seldom write at any one place, though.

One caveat: I have to capture a thought, otherwise risk losing it forever. Immediately, the flash of inspiration must be written-down. So, I just sit down. Even if I have to sit in the sand on an oceanic beach or right in the middle of a park. No wonder I am still stuck in a limbo..cheers.