I sit in the comfort of an armchair with my laptop, and a cup of black coffee close at hand.
I may read a poem, or a few chapters of a novel to get my creative juices flowing.
Occasionally, I listen to classical music, but I mostly write and edit in silence.
Do you have a particular routine?
I've been working on developing a routine. My favorite place to write is definitely in a coffee house, a small quiet one in Nairobi called Cafe Latte. Its quaint and rarely full after work (5pm). I just have too many distractions at home, my bed, the TV, my daughter, my hubby :) so yes out is best for me.
The dedicated writer's room is usually the best place. No interruptions. Though I've been known to take my writing all sorts of locations. The start of my first novel began on a ferry back from Ireland. It also began as a screenplay or teleplay. I got inspiration walking round the grand prix track in Monaco and wrote stuff in Cann. Wrote in Brands Hatch in dazzling sunlight, which was shortly followed by traveling at 130 miles per hour round the thing. The writing was planned - the g-forces were not.
I'm trained in the art of writing screenplays so regardless of writing a novel as my main project, I love watching a television episode where both the acting and the writing have that spark to them. I'm particularly partial to over arching storylines in the science fiction genre, though anything that can offer a new perspective or make me feel or think about something in a new way is welcome.
Music is of course integral to the writing process, even though the actual writing takes place in silence. Many local or mostly unknown musicians offer the backdrop where characters and storylines can be created. It's such a strange experience watching musicians you know personally who have provided the soundtrack to a piece of inspiration for your story perform live.
As for routine, the best advice I was ever given by a fellow writer friend was to "turn up". Write it in your diary if you must. Do not be disturbed. Put the worst, most loathed tasks first so they get done. For me, creativity is enjoyable and thus often done late in the day, often into the night. (My former occupation was in theatre, so late mornings and late nights sit well with me.)
As I've read more and interacted more with other writers, I've learnt being different is not only okay, it's welcomed. There are no set rules. Work with whatever works for you. Personally, I've found it a much more enjoyable and productive way of working. Always interested to hear the routines and processes other writers employ.