Customer Reviews

Why I Write: Thoughts on the Craft of Fiction (A Back Bay Book)

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Blythe is as fine and impassioned a writer as he is a shrewd and judicious editor, and the real gem of this wonderful anthology is his beautifully drawn, occasionally hilarious and ultimately inspiring introduction. In these literal-minded journalism-crazed days it's hard to imagine any work that exhorts the merits of fiction putting much of a dent in the near-monopoly held by fact-based writing, but this anthology should lure many readers and maybe even a few journalists themselves who are tired of splashing around in the shallow pool of stories that actually happened when they could be diving into the deep water of figurative and imaginative truth.

This is a holy compendium of wisdom for fiction writers to keep themselves from pulling out every single hair of their frustrated heads on any given day. When I need intensive literary therapy, I sit down and read the book from cover to cover; I've done this on at least seven occasions. WHY I WRITE is my intelligent literary cheerleader . Every morning before I begin to write, I randomly open the book and put my finger on a paragraph, and read the section. Invariably, I get the boost I need. It's like having coffee with a witty, brilliant friend that happens to be a writer. Ann Patchett, one of the writers whose essays appear in this book, says that "writers are people who desperately need habits to fill up their days." One of the best habits I've formed is referring to this powerful volume on a daily basis. Will Blythe's introduction is one of the best essays on writing I've ever read; he has brought together a magical cast of writers whose blunt, holy words have the power to heal many an ailing writer.

I'm a produced playwright who has been working hard on writing prose for a few years. I've taken some University Extension classes on writing and was even selected to be a part of a prestigious year-long university novel-writing intensive. I own many wonderful books on the craft of writing and I have to say that this is my favorite. It's the one I always keep with me whereever I go. I can literally open it to any page and find something that will help me at that moment. I read it when I'm stuck or when it's flowing, when I'm bored with my writing or when I'm happy with it. Some of the essays in here I have read literally hundreds of times, and each time I get something new from them. The pieces by Rick Bass, Thom Jones, Mary Gaitskill and William Vollman are, IMHO, worth the price of the book. I have purchased copies for many of my writer friends when they've hit a slump. If you are serious about your writing, are past the beginner stage but every so often need the sage advice of a seasoned pro, then buy this book immediately.

This is a wonderful book for those readers who aspire to write, as well as a unique a collection of insights for those who read contemporary fiction. Each writer in this edited collection seems more passionate and self-exploratory than the next in their descriptions of what motivates them to write and what fuels their committment to an often lonely pursuit. Whether it is Rick Bass drawing on summer mountain breezes or Terry McMillan assuring us that writing makes her a better person, we are drawn in by these essays. The works have been crafted to share the kinds of internal dialogue a writer might have with himself. Each essay allows the reader to assume the privileged role of fascinated listener. Ann Patchett's praise of her mentor, Allan Gurganus, who remains incredibly more significant than a former teacher in her life, is fascinating. Although I have purchased many books on writing, I found this volume belatedly, and am utterly grateful I did. It is one of the best collections of writings from the heart. Mr. Blythe has created a little treasure; it's a gift any working writer would appreciate having in his/her collection. It raises the spirits of the aspiring writer as well; particularly on the days when the muse seems to have escaped for good.

There's a lot of variety here, and some very good stuff that will make you want to read the fiction written by the authors as well as help inform you on the craft of fiction. One of my favorite books on writing.

This elegant book is beautifully written and is a wonderful peak into the process of some very good writers. I now have a new list of writers whose books I want to read. What a treat!