I started this series a couple weeks ago in lieu of the purchase of a new home and, owning next to nothing, the need to get things to go into the home. It’s called Man Cave Monday, but the reality is that the entire house shall be a man cave, so anything awesome that can fit in a home will be included.
Let us begin with the reading list.
On Writing
I write a lot. Everyday I wake up and write 2,000 words dedicated to whatever big project I’m working on, which is a book, then spend the rest of the day writing. Be it newsletters, articles, Facebook posts, whatever, I’m constantly typing. Which would make you think I’d be half good at it by now. Alas, I need mentors. I need people who are far better than I at this craft to show me how to write better.
I find almost all of my mentors in books. Some books tell you how to write. Others show you how to do so, and others do a bit of both. This week we’ll highlight 2 books that either show you or tell you and show you.
I just picked this book up and I can’t put it down. For one, it’s hilarious. Second, Mr. King brings you into his process and his struggle to become a real-life author. It’s a wonderful book for anyone aspiring to become great at something. It’s an even better book for anyone who wants to turn a hobby into a profession.
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
Words that do not belong are not found in Hemingway’s sentences. He writes what is and describes it in a way that the reader can feel without puffing himself up with unnecessary or fancy words like so many do. He writes as if he’s got nothing to prove. He just has a story to tell. Any of his books will show you how writing is best done without excess.
The Cave
Stuff that belongs in your man cave, or if your home is your man cave, in your home.
The Dog
A best friend is probably the best thing a man can purchase. Obviously, there are no links to your dog, that’s your choice. I went for the Dogo Argentino. ‘Twas the best purchase of my life next to the pup I bought with my sister when I was 12.
If a man cave needs one thing, it is a loyal companion.
The Jeans by Mott & Bow
Now, jeans are somewhat important to me because they’re what I usually wear. I’ve spent years trying to find a durable pair. Wrangler and Lumina have filled that void. But both take a while to break in. From a comfort standpoint, and being a fella with bigger than average thighs for my waist, Mott & Bow are tough to beat.
Get the straight leg. They’ll still fit snug, but they’re comfortable as shite and they look great. For you quad-zillas out there, Mott & Bow are an excellent option.
The Flag
Its very important that people know where you’re from, and/or what you stand for. At the very least it should give solicitors an idea of what they’re entering into.
A flag can hang from your porch. It can be hung on your wall. It can show how proud you are to reside in a country such as your own, or how proud you are of your service, or the service of others.
It can show your faith, your politics, your spirit. A flag hung on the wall of a man cave is a fine idea.
The Print
Andy Thomas is my favorite artist. His paintings of the west, of great men both present and past, are perfect for any man cave. My home will be filled with his work as I gather one piece at a time. Flip through the catalog on his web site, or grab a print from Amazon.com here.
Everything about his paintings wreaks manliness and should be found in any room of your home, most of which, your man cave.
What would you add to the man cave that isn’t here?
