by
Arthur Kerns
Before my knees gave out, I ran on a regular basis at a certain
time of day. If I skipped my run, for the rest of the day I walked around
having a nagging feeling that something was missing in life.
Same thing with writing. I have to write every day at a
certain time or I get very antsy. When something or someone causes a change in
my program, irritation sets in.
Now when the holidays arrive one is faced with all sorts of
disruptions. Visitors, family, relatives arrive and demand attention—right when
you’ve had a great breakthrough in that manuscript. Sure you need a break from
the routine now and then to regroup and reboot, but aggravation still sets in.
Then there’s the situation when you go on an extended trip
to celebrate the holidays. Frustration begins simmering under the surface.
Should I take my computer, or notebook, or my rewrites? What will everyone think
of me when I barge in with all my paraphernalia then look for a quiet place to
work?
Now if you try to explain all this to a non-writer
invariably you’ll be accused of selfishness, then thrown an incredulous look,
or worse hear the expression, “Oh, you writers.”
Yes, there are times when situations during the holidays
inspire a story, perhaps a comedy or a murder. However, does it become a great
catalyst for the next story? Usually not for me, but then again there was that
time when we traveled to New York City for Christmas and . . .
