Harry Bernstein published his first memoir, Invisible Wall, in his early nineties. And then went on to publish two more. "It's never too late" might overstate the possibilities, but surely with so many old people around, one would like to think some of us read books by other old people. Agents would know that right? (Past a certain age, most of us start feeling like we've been hit by trucks, which might to some extent explain our affinity for your story.)
I agree 100%. In this column, J, you have achieved a tour de force with your stunning opening describing the dizzying array of
things a hired pen does, and does well. What an amazing juggling act with words you did pre-truck, and what an incredible virtuoso performance you have given now, post-truck, in this column. Thanks, J. I too would buy your book.
Personally, I do not read memoirs. I do not grow and learn as much watching someone else’s life as watching my own. If I like someone’s writing, I’ll sometimes look at some of their biography for some insight but never confuse that with believing I know them because of their biography. For example, I know more about Kafka by his writing than by his biography or that I have seen where he was born, worked and is buried.
Exactly how I feel!
So many words assembled so beautifully. Thank you. Relentless forward progress!
Harry Bernstein published his first memoir, Invisible Wall, in his early nineties. And then went on to publish two more. "It's never too late" might overstate the possibilities, but surely with so many old people around, one would like to think some of us read books by other old people. Agents would know that right? (Past a certain age, most of us start feeling like we've been hit by trucks, which might to some extent explain our affinity for your story.)
You give good column too. I would buy your book.
I agree 100%. In this column, J, you have achieved a tour de force with your stunning opening describing the dizzying array of
things a hired pen does, and does well. What an amazing juggling act with words you did pre-truck, and what an incredible virtuoso performance you have given now, post-truck, in this column. Thanks, J. I too would buy your book.
Love your writing. Wish I was an agent - I would want to publish you. :)
I really enjoy your words. I admire your artwork.
Personally, I do not read memoirs. I do not grow and learn as much watching someone else’s life as watching my own. If I like someone’s writing, I’ll sometimes look at some of their biography for some insight but never confuse that with believing I know them because of their biography. For example, I know more about Kafka by his writing than by his biography or that I have seen where he was born, worked and is buried.
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And you are writing this to an extraordinary memoirist because? I assume you didn't read this essay? But had to have your say?
For many of us, the tales from our own archives, straight or embroidered, are our "writing." And this particular artist in the field is a pure marvel.
Ok, sorry I bothered you. I will not bother you again.
Oh, you didn't bother me. I wrote my comment around yours, to erase the negative thoughts aimed at Judith.