Hi! The world is an existential nightmare, but it could be a nightmare we share!

I'm a professional writer and game designer looking for a long-term relationship. 30s- no kids (got the snip), no prior marriages, no addictive substances (except sugar). Pretty far-left political stances. I'm mostly fit (though my cardio is garbo), slender, and 6'0, and I've been told I'm handsome if you like guys with shaved heads- Ideally would like to be with someone of a similar build/fitness and generally around my age /- 9 years.

While I've been called "the most real person I've met with online dating," I should warn you ahead of time, that's either a good thing or a bad thing depending on your perspective. Can't promise everyone will see me as a lovable scamp, but you'll hopefully at least find me authentic.

I'd love to meet someone curious, clever, and confident. Bonus points for people with gothy/punk/alternative styles, but that's not a dealbreaker or anything (I would like someone to help me pick out tattoos). No smokers, please! That is a dealbreaker.

I've been around enough to know what I'm looking for and not to settle. I strive for (and expect in return) open communication, honesty, a problem-solving attitude toward conflict, and compassion/empathy/understanding/patience. Self-improvement and being up-front are important to me. Communication has recently been a problem with prospective partners over the last couple years, so I want to stress that I'm not the right fit for someone who's conflict-avoidant or who doesn't approach their partner with the benefit of the doubt. For me, there's no point in a relationship if you can't trust each other and feel safe with each other even when you disagree about something.

I try to be a patient, understanding, and kind person who takes responsibility for his mistakes and tries to grow from them. I'm not perfect, and I don't expect perfection. I just want someone who works with me, complementing my rough edges while I complement theirs.

I'm definitely more of a homebody/introvert, but I like walks, swimming, working out, and indoor rock climbing. But you're more likely to find me playing some kind of game. I'm affectionate and mostly silly even if I take a lot of topics seriously. I try to view life with humor, but I've got anxiety/depression, so I'd prefer to be with someone who at least understands mental health issues. I love a faux-combative dynamic with partners - giving each other low-key shit. Life's no fun unless we're being a little mean to each other (Them Statler and Waldorf vibes, right?)

It generally takes me a minute to warm up to someone, but I try to let prospective partners dictate the flow of conversation initially so they feel comfortable. I'm flexible in my approach overall, but I usually roll a little slowly until I have a good idea of how we mesh and what kind of affection/banter suits our dynamic. Though it's all faster if we click just right.

I try to measure my words very carefully, and when it's a topic that interests me, I may have a lot to say, but I'd ideally like to be with someone who can do comfortable silence too. Occasionally, I just like existing with friends or partners, even if we're doing something totally separate.

If you weren't driven insane by my writing style/density, please give me a holler and we can be snarky weirdos together! (I would really appreciate a picture with your message if you're comfortable with it. I just don't want to waste your time if the attraction's not there!)