It's not often one comes across a book which purports to contain instructions on both writing and life. In fact, this is the only one I've encountered. Does the concept work?
I think the answer has to be Yes for the simple reason that true writers are compelled to write. It's as hard to imagine not writing as it would be to contemplate not breathing, And this is what gives this book its raison d'être. Students on writing classes tend to be mainly interested in getting published, and all the stuff that goes with that, like finding an agent, grabbing the attention of a publisher, working with an agent. But those kind of things are not the end goal, or at least not the sole purpose, of the writer.
There are three things I very much like about the book:
First, it covers a lot, all the things waiting involves, in a very practical way. The chapters are short, which is always to be welcomed, and are organised into four sections. These are Writing, The Writing Frame of mind, Help Along The Way, Publication -- and other reasons to write, and The last class. (That last one may sound a bit odd, but Lamott is writing the book, in effect, to the students who attend her class.)
Second, it's very humorous, especially the parts where she describes her state of mind waiting for an editor's feedback, and similar situations.
And that brings me on to my third reason for liking the book: it's very human. It’s good to learn, for instance, that I am not the only person who feels a twang of envy when a fellow writer lands a brilliant deal or enjoys some other measure of success.
It’s good to know that I am not the only person who goes through self-doubt and a defensive state of mind when awaiting the readers' responses once your work is out in the wild.
The advice itself is useful. I especially liked the chapters on short assignments, polaroids, index cards and writing groups
Overall, I liked the book because it didn’t make me feel guilty about not writing thousands of words a day, or not being a brilliant writer all the time.
If there is one mild criticism I would make it’s that the rants or diatribes are a little repetitive. Nevertheless, that does not make them any less humorous or true to life.
Bottom line: should you buy this book? Definitely.
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