Good Character

When someone is described as being a "character" as in "She's quite a character" this is usually a thinly veiled euphemism for "weirdo" or "oddball". (Perhaps this is why Steve Buscemi is described as a "character actor".) Anyway, when people on HGTV are house shopping and looking at some bland, new construction, suburban box they often complain about the lack of "character". Well this is something I cannot relate to as my house-and every house I've ever lived in-has had character in spades.




I've never lived in new construction, ever. I cannot imagine a home with plumb walls and faucets that don't drip and windows that don't stick shut. It would seem strange to me to have modern conveniences like a dishwasher, garbage disposal and non-creaky floors. But over the years all these quirky, slightly akimbo homes have had things that no new home ever could, like a medicine cabinet with a label from the 1930's about poison control (syrup of ipecac anyone?), or strange niches in which to hide, or atomic era light fixtures. Older homes-character homes if you will-have stories to tell, about their past and about past owners. They are frustrating, mischievous and infinitely lovable. Older homes assert themselves, they will not be ignored, instead they must be attended to and coddled. Their fences mended, leaks plugged and shrubs pruned. They lack all the polish and uniformity that new homes seem to ooze.



It is also said that struggles and experiences build character. And that adversity enhances ones character. Renting or owning an older house is certainly a challenge. It will obfuscate and frustrate, but in the end it is eminently worthwhle to know that your home is full of history and memories and maybe the occasional friendly ghost. I'd take that over a dishwasher any day...well, ok, most days.