Literary Scraps for the Overburdened Reader
Roland Barthes on writing; why writers abandon novels; the importance of rhythm in prose; a new set of rules for writers; and the continuing adventures of the late David Foster Wallace.
Defining Narrative Arc
Normally, in workshop, I am quick to share definitions and advice... But on this question—“What is narrative arc?” I found myself unusually hesitant.
An Entirely New Terror
With the writing of the novel out of the way, the amateur novelist is free to pursue an even more horrifying endeavor: the search for an agent.
From Your Lips She Drew the Hallelujah
The long history of Rebellious Bird brought to a close? Even the amateur novelist knows the completion of a novel is only the beginning.
The Premiere of Season Two
Paralyzed with fear! Back to work again, will the amateur novelist escape the evil clutches of the impossible Perfect Novel?
This Week’s Literary Hors d’ouvres
Slate Magazine on the divide in literary culture; The New Yorker interviews George Saunders; Rachel Toor on "cling[ing] to the notion of romantic genius"; Bad Writing, the movie; and all about authorial personas.
Update from the Ivory Tower
In today's summation of news: San Francisco, where every book lover wants to be; a how-to book for Victorian writers; Gatz--a seven hour play from one of America's most beloved novels; a new website for literary-inclined youth; Salman Rushdie on inspiration; literary lists; and publicity for yours truly.
Writer’s Block Buster: Play the Part
Writer's block got you down? Try exploring some new remedies and have fun in the process. This Block Buster article helps you find your inner writer and dares you to become and embrace that which you have always dreamed of.
Men in the Off Hours: Three Things to Love about Anne Carson
A look at Anne Carson's collection, Men in the Off Hours, reminds us that there are many things that make the Canadian poet a pleasure to read.
History and Fiction: where one ends and the other begins
A writer of anything, whether you call it fact or fiction, focuses upon one or several things, to the exclusion of all else. For this reason history is always, to a certain extent, alterable...
Two Interviews, a Rockstar, Ministry of Stories, and More
Before I started keeping track of these things, I had no idea just how bustling the literary sphere really is. I find myself bookmarking almost everything I read.
Call It What It Is
Are you a bi-polar writer? Do you write like crazy for three days then quit for six months? Columnist David Harris attacks the greatest of literary demons by calling it out by name.
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