The Writing Life: A Collection of Essays and Interviews

By Diane Osen

A collection of essays by and interviews with America's finest writers about their working lives, this book has been published to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the National Book Awards. Includes... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0679769838
• ISBN13: 9780679769835
• Release Date: November 1995
• Publisher: Random House (NY)
• Length: 243 Pages
• Weight: 1.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.2" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Not the most impressive collection of this kind

This collection contains the reflections of R.W.B. Lewis, Gail Godwin, John Updike, Thomas Friedman, Philip Levine , Marilynne Robinson, J.Anthony Lukas, Gloria Naylor, Joyce Carol Oates, Norman Rush, Paul Monnette , Louis Begley, Anne Proloux, John Casey, David MacCullough , Sandra Scofied, Ron Chernow. While there are many insighful comments somehow expected more especially from the heavy- hitters Oates and Updike. Nonetheless I did take special enjoyment from reading about certain writers whose work I have heard much of , but have not myself read. One especially interesting feature of many of the interviews is the writer's telling how they first decided to become writers.

Enormously Helpful

In the summer before entering my senior year in high school, my uncle (who is also a writer), gave me this book, saying that over the years it had helped him. Consider this review a recommendation along similar lines. I've had the book for two years now, and I find myself continually looking back to it for inspiration, for guidance, for the assurance that comes from knowing the doubts and processes and little rituals of other writers. I especially recommend, among other excellent essays, "Dogma," which is witty, self-effacing, and has good advice on every line.

An inspiration to writers, a path to the mystery for readers

A beautiful book! The little ceremonies of writing, the love of books, rituals and inspirations from some of the best writers of our time. I wish this book whould be taught in high schools. it could be a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of writing and reading.