Why do I think that coffee is not supposed to be bitter? So bitter that I take one sip and want to spit it out. I will not alienate any readers by discussing individual brands of coffee because bitter seems to be everywhere. Large commercial brands and small-town breweries all serve the bitter brew. Sometimes the coffee is so bitter that I compare it with drinking hot tar. Not that I have ever started my day with a cup of hot tar, but my point is made.
How do I know that bitter is not how good coffee should taste? I compare it with the cup I get at my favorite French bakery. Not bitter, it is smooth and delightfully yummy. If this is true, why am I drinking bitter coffee instead of enjoying myself at the French bakery? The Realtor in me will rise up and answer. Location. Location. Location. My favorite bookstore sells bitter coffee. I go there because the atmosphere is desirable. I am surrounded by readers and by people who like to hang out in bookstores. The bookstore has skyrocketed their appeal by adding . . . drum roll please . . . delicious cakes. Need I say more? The two indulgences that satisfy my life-long need to experience guilt are a convenient one stop shop.
Guilt is not just a product of caffeinating myself and devouring sweets. I have been charged with a literary crime that needs to be addressed. I have been told (by me) that my writing is too personal and immature. I agree with myself concerning these unflattering adjectives. Maturity has never been one of my life goals, and if I am not mature by now, it isn’t going to happen. As for the second negative description ‘too personal’, I can only say “Of course.” Everyone knows that immature people are self-centered. Maturity is outward focused, immaturity is not. My writing is all about me, the big M. My experiences, my ideas, my thoughts. Do I have a defense? Yes. Bitter coffee made me do it.
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