A couple of days ago, I constructed a new section in my website, titled: Tea, Breaks, and Inspiration, which at first glance might cause the casual observer to question the relevance to writing or art.
Whilst out and about, whether on a shopping trip, a day away, or on holiday; I always carry a notebook and pen. Yes, always. Some passages in my novels and short stories were born during a tea or coffee break, either when out for the day, or on holiday.
A camera is useful, especially if on your phone, as I’ve discovered since buying my first Smartphone a few weeks ago. I have also been known to use a digital voice recorder. Having said that; I’m still convinced that nothing works quite as well as a few well-chosen words in a notebook.
You can be imaginative, or you can use Google and Wikipedia, but nothing captures the atmosphere, architecture, and general feel of a museum or other location, quite like the written word, dealt with, right there on the scene. On the odd occasion, I’ve been visiting a city and stopped for a few minutes, to write down what I see. People, vehicles, buildings, and the occasional snippet of conversation can be noted.
When I’m sitting with my tea or coffee in front of me … and piece of cake of course, I look at my brief notes, and top them up with a little information. I believe ‘real’ research gives creative writing an authority, and that can only come from the confidence of the writer.
http://www.tom-benson.co.uk/tea-breaks-and-inspiration/
What are you waiting for? Get your notebook, and go out for a while.
tombensoncreative.com 
Lots of what I write starts of as some scribble in a note book, (including that little ‘KillBill’ observation).
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Somehow that doesn’t surprise me Paul. Observation is the key, and I’ve already noticed that you employ it well mate. Thanks for dropping by.
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My pleasure. Did you get my reply about not worrying about the ‘mm’ formatting? If not, just to let you know I had no issues with it, all looks fine…
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What’s generally my probably is later I can’t read my writing, or my flash wasn’t working, or the note I left means absolutely nothing. Must be because I’m in my early 60s. Eh? Now where are my glasses?
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Thank you for dropping by Joylene. I’m in my early 60’s, but fortunately I’m a firm believer that 60 is the new 40. Now let’s not have any more of those weak excuses girl! I don’t believe a word of it anyway … you’re only saying it to make others feel better. LOL
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ps. Happy IWSG day. I think I’m #90.
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I agree! I always carry a notebook around with me! You never know where you might find inspiration! I always have to leave it next to my bed too incase an idea strikes before I go to sleep… If I don’t write it down I know it’ll be gone by morning. Great read! 🙂
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Thank you for sharing these thoughts as it was a reminder to me, Though I own no cell phone to take photos or recordings, your remarks have led me to go purchase batteries for my voice recorder on my nightstand to record nighttime inspirations/visitations, or carry in my purse for just such times. I also use pen and paper carried with me to write down ideas so they are not forgotten.
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Hi Marlayne. Thank you for dropping by. It’s a sobering thought that JK Rowling wrote the early Harry Potter series in a café.
I’ll be over to check up on you soon my friend. Keep that notebook filling up with ideas.
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