I guess this applies to all creative types, because I've definitely seen it in painters, dancers, and woodcarvers.
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That Other Place.
It's where writers go.
When friends smile and say
"He's away with the fairies again."
Others think we're being rude,
or antisocial, or arrogant.
But it's none of these.
Sometimes we don't even choose.
Summoned, we answer the call,
our minds instantly elsewhere.
We can try to be polite,
to listen to everyday banalities
whilst characters romp in our heads.
But it never really works
and we can't be in two places
with only one mind.
And much as we love you,
no matter what we've promised,
sometimes that other place wins.
But, to my loved ones...
Know this. Even when you come second
to imaginary people and situations,
no-one else even comes third.
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