Reflections on Self-Isolation and Minimalist Living
Counting the days since my last public performance, December 22nd, marks more than a hundred days of self-isolation. My life in the middle of the quiet countryside has a certain charm, even if it means being the only light in my village when my friends working at the local power station pass by. Living solo, I continue to write and perform, inevitably setting myself up for a life of solitude and introspection.
The minimalist life
Unlike many who have accumulated a lifetime of possessions, my living space looks like it's just waiting for me to pack up and leave. With minimal furniture, I don't need much to call my home: a divan made from spare cushions and throws, a laptop that serves double duty as work and entertainment, and a single gas ring for cooking.
I enjoy cooking for myself, particularly preparing a homemade Christmas Dinner on my available equipment. With such limited resources, my efforts for a festive meal are truly challenging and rewarding. This minimalist approach to everyday life adds a unique flavor to any routine.
Struggling with my second book, I've embraced self-imposed isolation, which fits seamlessly with the requirement of social distancing. My current favorite pastime is a daily 12-hour walk to the supermarket, where I stick to my regular purchases: oats, salad, fruit, oatmilk, and tinned tuna. Occasionally, I opt for a change with chicken, chocolate, and bacon each week, yet I often find myself muttering to the self-checkout: They have to be directly related, or the clue about the newspaper stand goes awry!
Embracing Online Life
While some have turned to online platforms in search of connection during these times, I find myself more settled in my solitude. My online world thrives with the challenge of finding well-reasoned connections and timely insights. However, the uncharted digital waters can be unsettling when my extrovert friends struggle to cope with lockdown. Their frequent updates and emotional postings about unscooped dog poop and livestreams of dull activities serve only to remind me to be content with my solitary routine.
Although at times I long for the excitement and camaraderie of pub games and cooking classes, I prefer my solitude. My daily walks offer a chance to let my mind wander and to play with the storyline of my ongoing book. The physical and mental act of writing constantly demands attention to detail, and the walk helps me gather those insights in a productive manner.
In Conclusion
Living in the wilderness and self-isolation have granted me the opportunity to appreciate a minimalist lifestyle. My days are simple, with purposeful tasks and a self-imposed quest to make the most of my solitude. The walk to the supermarket with those repetitive thoughts in my head, the solitary evening writing, and the nights spent turning my apartment into a makeshift performance stage—these moments are what define my current existence. As I continue, I find myself in a space that is both challenging and fulfilling.