What gadgets do I need to get my novel written?

Graham Leaworth

Bearded lollygagger George RR Martin famously spends his time gawping at the walls of his home office, pretending to write the next A Song of Ice and Fire book while sat in front of a DOS computer running 1987’s WordStar 4.0. Guru writes with, depending on his platform, tangentially archaic software that pushes everything but the words out of the way; on Windows it’s WriteMonkey, on Mac he goes for BBEdit. He has heard of novelists writing full books on their phones (try JotterPad, free with IAPs), and technophobes hand-writing every word of their memoirs.

The important thing is to write. Guru’s long-suffering Editor would certainly suggest, as he often does to GaGu, that you set some deadlines and actually stick to them (ahem). If you really can’t be trusted to avoid distractions, however, perhaps something like Astrohaus’ Freewrite Traveler might work. It’s basically a standalone e-ink typewriter, with a delightful keyboard and a complete disconnect from everything that doesn’t involve getting your words down on

If you are planning to use a computer, certain peripheral components will make the job a lot easier.

virtual paper.

If you are planning to use a computer, certain peripheral components will make the job a lot easier. A good keyboard, ideally a mechanical one with red switches so as not to tire your fingers. An ergonomic chair or a standing desk. A high-res monitor that will stop those pesky pixels irritating your eyes. A nice plant, a clock, and automated blinds so that you get some sunlight.

Good luck.