Another Long Night

A dull ache runs through my back and wrists, but I pay it no mind. Time’s slipped away from me, all that matters is the glow of the screen and the smooth plastic of my keyboard. I’d been here for hours with no signs of slowing down. I have to capitalize on this moment of inspiration before my thoughts run away from me. While my room has long since grown dark, my computer still glows with the same unending intensity. A little eyestrain’s never stopped me before. Something feint and smoky still hangs in the air, leftovers from incense sticks that have burnt themselves out. The sharp clicks of the keys play me a melody, lulling me into the rhythm of work. The sound itself means nothing, but they lead to something far bigger than themselves. I can barely see the letters I’m typing, but their positions are long since locked into my muscle memory. Black text is starting to blur on that white background. I lean back and stretch, letting my spine voice it’s grievances with my life choices. Its pops are gunshots compared to the hum of my laptop’s fan and the delicate clicking keyboard. The soft scent from the mug beside me finally entices me to stop my fervor. I take a full drink from the mug, smooth porcelain releasing thin milky tea. It’s long since gone cold, but its gentle earthy sweetness is still soothing. I look over my work, scrolling dully through pages of 12 point Cambria, 1.15 spaced. The words run together, but I still know what they mean. These tiny black glyphs contain a whole other world within them. They’re just pixels, yet they’re able to convey the life of a civilization, as well as its downfall. Heh, I think I’ve been up too long. Weariness hangs heavy on my shoulders, my bed singing a siren’s song. With a quick swig, I empty my mug. It really should go in the sink, but the kitchen feels like it’s miles away. Like everything else, I’ll deal with it in the morning. I save my document and close the computer, the burning in my eyes finally easing. Like every night, I tell myself that I’ll stop staying up so late, that I’ll build better habits. Soft fabric and darkness envelop me, and I fall into the void.