Writing Spaces: Ellen Keith

This week’s faraway Writing Space comes to us from Ellen Keith, author of “Thin Ice” from Issue 134!

“Because I travel on a regular basis, I’m flexible when it comes to writing spaces. I’m currently based in Amsterdam so I spend much of my time writing in the research library at the Rijksmuseum. It’s a gorgeous old room, covered by a domed roof that lets in a lot of natural light. Another bonus: other people have a view of my computer screen, which discourages me from wasting time on the Internet.

Here are the three things I can’t write without:

1) Empty space: Clutter distracts me, and I’m most productive when I’m away from my own things and to-do list. I appreciate a clear, open table.

2) Headphones: I love putting on music that fits the mood of the scenes I’m writing. Lately, I’ve been listening to a lot of classical, tango, and ’40s jazz, but Norah Jones is my go-to artist for focused work.

3) Art: Often, I have trouble getting words out, but I find it helps if I begin a writing session by engaging with something creative for a few minutes, such as reading a page of a novel, or exploring an exhibit in the museum.”