My Walter Mitty life

Walter Mitty is a character created by James Thurber. But he could be any of us. He could be me. 

The world was originally introduced to Walter Mitty in the short story The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, then later on in book form. Thurber loosely based the character on his friend Walter Mithoff we're told. What makes Walter interesting is not his actual life, but, rather, the life he lives in his head. As an introvert, I can identify with the character. If I said half the shit my head wanted to say, I would be the most polarizing character ever. But at least I wouldn't live a boring life. 

Daydreaming is a great way to leave your humdrum life. At least for a little while. Eventually, you have to go back to the grind. I think I've spent the majority of the last two years living the daydream life, which isn't really living. It's hard when you want something so much yet can't have it. If you could imagine it to life, you would. If you don't have the tools to cross the swollen river, then you sit on the banks of it and dream up an impossible scenario which will carry you over the dangerous rapids. Or through it. Or around it. Or whatever. 

Walter Mitty is a tragic character. He never succeeds in any of his fantasies. They're always cut short. So, even in his daydreams, he is thwarted. There is so much to identify with in this character, it's almost too easy to write about it. Just when I think I've finally made it, the rug gets pulled out from under me. It's great fodder for an audience but a horrible way to live. 

As I sit and write this, I can imagine a lot of successful scenarios for my future. But I won't. I'm going to enjoy the peace and quiet of my life without the outlandish machinations of my mind. I've put my heart and mind away. I need the quiet. Because a storm is coming. And it's okay to just be the humdrum, boring man I am. My life is not a fantastical fictional account. It's just one man's little play played out on a little stage with a little audience. Maybe when it's all over, there will be applause. Or perhaps just some stifled laughter. 

No, I'm not living the life I want to live. I probably won't get that chance. But I can live my life, period. I just have to get out of my easy chair and go through that door. 

But that seems like so much work. So, yeah, maybe tomorrow.