I love DFW. I have often quoted him in my own work. I haven't heard of Denis Johnson, no idea why. I also love Gay Takes a and Borges, including his nonfiction work. I think two things these have in common are (1) every word and every sentence counts, and (2) they just draw you in.
Borges means a great deal to me. And I agree about Wallace. He's so important to me. If you check out Johnson, I'd recommend either JESUS' SON or TRAIN DREAMS. Both masterpieces, though in many ways unlike his other books.
Talese is famous for writing nonfiction as if it's fiction, and for spending loads of time with his interview subjects. He also drew up reallydetailed outlines before starting to write
I love DFW. I have often quoted him in my own work. I haven't heard of Denis Johnson, no idea why. I also love Gay Takes a and Borges, including his nonfiction work. I think two things these have in common are (1) every word and every sentence counts, and (2) they just draw you in.
On your other points, i have been experimenting with different styles -- https://open.substack.com/pub/terryfreedman/p/experimenting-with-styles
As for Chandler, he just came out with the most brilliant metaphors and turns of phrase. I'm actually reading The Long Goodbye, and just living it.
Regarding academics and Kung, I think it's either snobbery or professional jealousy, or both.
Now to go and look up Johnson....
Dang! Blasted autocorrect. I meant Gay Talese
Borges means a great deal to me. And I agree about Wallace. He's so important to me. If you check out Johnson, I'd recommend either JESUS' SON or TRAIN DREAMS. Both masterpieces, though in many ways unlike his other books.
Thanks, Jody. I'm looking forward to discovering a new (to me) writer! Why do you like Borges? Are you familiar with Talese?
The Labyrinth is a brilliant piece of work. I don't know Talese. Where should I start?
His classic is this: https://www.esquire.com/news-politics/a638/frank-sinatra-has-a-cold-gay-talese/
Talese is famous for writing nonfiction as if it's fiction, and for spending loads of time with his interview subjects. He also drew up reallydetailed outlines before starting to write
Has either of you read Borges’s poetry?
I haven't. Is it good? I love his short stories, and also his book reviews. Not seen his poetry though. Recommendations?
I’ve never read Talese, but after a quick search, The Voyeur’s Motel is on my list. Thanks, Terry.
Hi Corey thanks. That's a great essay. Look at this too: ,https://www.esquire.com/news-politics/a638/frank-sinatra-has-a-cold-gay-talese/
Thanks. I think Jody recommendations that too. It will go on my list!
Also, I highly recommend you read Jesus’ Son. That book knocked the wind out of me the first time I read it.
I'll read this tonight, Terry. Thank you.
I was iterating Jody’s recommendation because it’s such a significant book.
Thank you!