Putting myself in a situation where I have to absorb the world. Taking a ride on the tube, watching people, seeing a great film, but usually going out into the world, shaking my brain up and allowing unexpected things to happen.

My journal. I've kept one for many years, and am now almost completely out of the habit of writing about the days events in a conventional way. I write prose, thoughts, automatic writing exercises, lyrics with no music. I find it hugely helpful to look back into.

I really don't remember being given any memorable advice about writing. I like what Robert Smith of The Cure said in an interview as I was just starting out: "The best advice is don't take any advice."