I write with the TV on. I also need quiet when I write. So I fulfill both needs by putting in one of my often-watched true-crime tapes or DVDs and hitting the mute button. I call this white noise, although I know that’s not the actual definition of the term. This gives me the quiet I need and it satisfies that part of me that wants to watch TV too. I know, it’s unusual. But I think it’s unusual when people tell me they write to music. I’ve tried to do the same on occasion, but I just can’t do it.

I prefer my white noise.

I’m excited about the fact that I got six new DVDs last week. I have new white noise, and when I finish writing, I can watch it with sound.