Calling Chad Out: Writer’s Huts

Guest writing is often seen as its own reward. It is a chance to stretch the mental muscles, gain some exposure and practice that ancient and elusive art of writing web content. In addition, these guest appearances can be used to subtly promote sites and events in which the writer has some interest (not that I would stoop to such a tactic). Rarely, if ever, does a guest writer request remuneration. Rarely does he have the gall to extend an empty hand and ask something of his benefactor, the site owner.

This is particular true in my case where Chad, my friend and partner in many an imagined “thousandaire” venture, is the one for whom I am writing. Chad is generous with his ideas and with his beer. He is quick to offer advice and food. Begging further favors would be crass, uncouth, a faux pas of the highest order. And yet, alas, such ungentlemanly behavior is unfortunately in my blood. I will ask one more thing. In fact, I will state my request as a sort of challenge.

Lately, I have read about something called a “writing hut”. Apparently Mark Twain had one and so did George Bernard Shaw. Two great writers, both with huts . . . coincidence? Perhaps, but perhaps not. It could be that the writer builds the hut, but then it could also be that the hut builds the writer. Maybe it is the hut itself that bestows writerly genius. Maybe that small enclosed structure focuses some sort of cosmic energy that stimulates creative force and enables perfect articulation. Crazy? Of course, but worth a shot.

Now, I would never ask Chad to build or even design such a structure for me. That would be taking things too far, but I am sure that, in his memory and vast collection of links, he has a great deal of information about such huts. In fact, knowing the way ideas constantly form in that over-occupied head of his, I am sure he has some hare-brained plans for just the sort of structure I’m talking about. So, all I am asking (along with the continued beer generosity) is for a post here on postgreen. Just one blog post about writer’s huts.

So Chad, there is my challenge, my request. I am adding one more small item to that full plate you keep. Give me and the faithful readers here on postgreen (who I know care as deeply about writer’s huts as I) one post. What do you say?

Oh, and readers, you aren’t off the hook either. I have, after all, written for you. The least you can do is throw a couple of links to writer’s huts in the comments.

Nic is pretty sure that Chad is going to regret waiving his right to review these posts before they go up.