Sometimes the work drives me to despair, but more often than not it’s a humbling experience. At one with my chore, I am at peace

There’s a regular customer opposite me screeching at anyone who’ll listen – and even those who won’t. The frequency of her voice is piercing my brain. I am managing a queue of patrons: taking orders, making cocktails, trying to stay sane. I am trapped here for another four hours. Welcome to the world of bar work.

Just shy of turning 50, I recently returned to the hospitality grind after a breezy 30-year “sabbatical”. My freelance writing work is temperamental, and while I live the work-from-home dream, tapping at a laptop from my lounge can also be lonely. Even as a misanthrope, I need contact with my fellow species. Due to crippling social anxiety, I prefer having a role to play at any social function. I’m great at small talk when also pouring a drink. Standing idly with a drink and talking? Not so much.

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Beth Knights is a freelance screenwriter and writer in scripted television, digital media and print

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