Returning to the Well

Northern New Jersey has seen unseasonably hot temperatures this week. The hot, humid weather made sleeping difficult, and I have little energy for writing this morning. My thinking is foggy and disconnected, so this post will likely be more incoherent than usual.

One thing this miserable weather has demonstrated is that we need to figure out a plan to make the house more comfortable. It may be time to look into an air conditioning system for the house. I cringe at the thought of the costs involved, but we’re getting older and aren’t as resilient as I’d like to imagine I am.

Because I’m so drowsy, I really can’t figure out what to write for this week’s assignment in my writing class. It’s due Sunday at 9:00 pm, and I’m glad I have the weekend to think about it. I’m scheduled to work tomorrow, which cuts into my writing time. And also my relaxation time.

I’ve been listening to Janelle Monáe’s “Dirty Computer” album on repeat for a week straight. For those of us who march to a different drummer’s beat, Ms. Monáe’s album speaks to those feelings of being different in a world that doesn’t always value differences. It’s a fantastic blend of pop, R & B, and hip-hop, and the videos for the singles are well worth watching.

Even better is the 40+ minute “emotion picture” that she filmed to go with the album. The videos and film are not safe for work, but I highly recommend checking them out when you’re off the clock. The emotion picture is a Sci-Fi piece and draws on Ms. Monáe’s love of that genre, particularly android stories.

This weekend is the Kentucky Derby, and I’m abashed to admit I don’t have a pick this year. I’ve been focused on other things and haven’t paid attention to the prep races. It’s strange entering Derby weekend without a clue as to who I want to win. It’s been a long time since that was the case.

I titled this “Returning to the Well” because that’s where I feel like I am right now. I need to look to art, music, and good books to refill my creative drive and give me some inspiration for my next project.

Any suggestions on something that has inspired you lately?