The Well-Shod Writer

My Merrell Shoes: l-old pair; r-new pair

Between saying and doing, many a pair of shoes is worn out. —Iris Murdoch

I’d planned to begin a new series on nonfiction book formats today. My first post on The Project Book is nearly done but not quite ready to publish. So instead I am writing about one of my favorite things—and something every fashionable writer needs to think about—shoes.

As a work-at-home writer in Wisconsin (whose husband likes to keep the house at a brisk 67), I am constantly searching for shoes that keep my feet warm. Several years ago, I happened upon Merrell’s fur-lined clogs. While not stylish, they do two things well: provide great support and keep me warm. And, when I  forget to put on my real shoes before leaving the house—which happens more than I’d like to admit—they don’t look too shabby.

Well, actually my pair is no longer suitable for wearing outside, unless I’m picking up dog poo or taking out the garbage (see left pair above). On Tuesday, when I saw the black leather fur-lined clogs on sale, I snatched up a new pair (see right pair above). My daughter tells me that these shoes will never be fashionable. I guess that’s okay as long as they do their job—support my feet as I pace around the house, trying to imagine the next plot point. Of course, I still need to find a chic pair of shoes to wear in public while I speak, but I will leave that task for a different day. For now, I am just happy to have feet that are no longer numb from the cold.

Your turn: What’s your favorite pair of writing shoes?

About the author

Author, professional certified coach, and teacher Rochelle Melander has helped thousands of people design a writing life, create great books, and connect with their readers. She is the author of ten books, including the National Novel Writing Month guide—Write-A-Thon: Write Your Book in 26 Days (and Live to Tell About It).

Related Posts

Search Blog

Recent Blogs

You’re Not Lazy: How to Overcome Resistance and Start Writing
November 3, 2026
I Learned This Mindset Shift from The Milwaukee Brewers
October 27, 2026
Small Steps, Big Stories: How Tiny Wins Help You Reach Your Writing Goals
October 20, 2026

Archives