Writer's Desk Totems: The Surprising Objects That Power Our Creativity
"Not every desk totem needs to be poetic—some of us write our best scenes next to a Viking duck."
What's on your desk might say more about your writing life than you think.
Writers are creatures of creativity, habit, and—let's admit it—just a touch of superstition. While some claim they can write anywhere with nothing but a laptop and a strong coffee, many of us have a carefully curated writing space, complete with quirky desk accessories, inspirational objects, and deeply personal totems.
These aren't just decorations. They're writing rituals in physical form; desk talismans that ground us, inspire us, remind us who we are (and why we keep going).
Over the years, as both an editor and author, I've seen some unforgettable setups. So today, let's peek behind the curtain of a writer's life and explore the meaningful objects writers keep close while writing and editing.
Real Writer Totems I've Seen or Heard About:One author swears her carved elephant brings publishing magic. She turns it to face the door before every writing session: "You don't want the luck leaving," she said. Makes sense.
A First Rejection LetterIt's framed, tacked up, or tucked under the keyboard. "It reminds me how far I've come," said one writer. "And how wrong that editor was."
A Shell from a Beach in GreeceThis one sat beside a novelist's monitor; picked up during a solo trip when she decided to finally write her book. It symbolizes courage and commitment.
A Fancy Pen No One Is Allowed to TouchThis one's strictly for inspiration. Often vintage, gifted, or engraved. Its job is to whisper, You're a real writer.
A Tarot Card or Prophet CardFor the more mystical-minded: a single card from a deck that represents the writer's current journey—or their character's arc. Even the skeptics admit it helps focus their intention.
A Photograph That Grounds ThemMentors, ancestors, childhood homes, or places they'll never forget. These are portals; not just pictures.
Something Totally BizarreLike a rubber duck in a Viking helmet. (Real example.) "It reminds me not to take myself too seriously," said the author. We could all use one of those.
What's On My Desk? The Editor's RevealSince I've outed everyone else, here's what I keep close:
- An entire bulletin board of photos of my children and favorite spots around the world, for instant positive energy
- A red-framed Shakespeare quote poster I bought (yes, tourist-style) from the Globe Theatre in London
- Framed covers of my own novels—they remind me how much I've already created when self-doubt sneaks in
- A coffee mug printed with my book covers—stuffed with pens because… of course
- And a drawer that probably contains at least three dried-out highlighters I refuse to let go of (creative logic: "they might still work")
Between my writing and editing life, I've become the queen of desk and wall totems. If I'm in the middle of a work, I also keep a print-out of the theme under my keyboard (one sentence only) to keep me on track.
Why These Objects MatterWriting can be lonely. Editing can be intense. Creative work is emotional work—and sometimes we need silent allies. Your desk totem doesn't need to be poetic, rare, or even beautiful. It just needs to be yours.
If you're setting up or refreshing your writing space, ask yourself:
- What grounds me when I write?
- What makes me feel brave?
- What object reminds me I'm not doing this alone?
Tell me: What's your favorite writing talisman? Tag me or comment with a photo. I'd love to see what's on your desk.