I drink both instant and real.

I drink french-press rocket fuel in the morning, a strong cap at lunchtime on office days, and I wouldn’t compromise on either.

But afternoons at home, or in the evening… I dunno, it’s just too much drama. I want something in the background that isn’t going to make any demands on my attention. It’s the equivalent of watching garbage TV at the end of a long day. You don’t want hard-hitting incisive social commentary, you just want a couple episodes of Ow, My Balls.

I’ve found a brand that doesn’t taste like toner; it’s not real coffee, just Brown Drink. But it’s entirely acceptable Brown Drink, and it does what I need it for.