

#4125
Mentioned in 7 episodes
Draft No. 4
Book • 2017
John McPhee's "Draft No. 4" offers insights into the writing process of a master journalist.
It details his struggles and triumphs in crafting long-form articles, emphasizing the importance of deep research and meticulous revision.
The book reveals McPhee's meticulous approach, his dedication to accuracy, and his ability to weave together complex narratives.
It serves as a valuable guide for aspiring writers, highlighting the challenges and rewards of creating impactful work.
McPhee's reflections on his own writing process provide a unique perspective on the art of storytelling.
It details his struggles and triumphs in crafting long-form articles, emphasizing the importance of deep research and meticulous revision.
The book reveals McPhee's meticulous approach, his dedication to accuracy, and his ability to weave together complex narratives.
It serves as a valuable guide for aspiring writers, highlighting the challenges and rewards of creating impactful work.
McPhee's reflections on his own writing process provide a unique perspective on the art of storytelling.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 7 episodes
Mentioned by 

as his teacher in a class on nonfiction writing.


Tim Ferriss

1,418 snips
#632: Jim Collins — A Rare Interview with a Reclusive Polymath (Repost)
Mentioned by 

as his professor at Princeton, whose class significantly impacted his writing style.


Tim Ferriss

378 snips
#361: Jim Collins — A Rare Interview with a Reclusive Polymath
Mentioned by 

as a writer whose approach to structure is helpful.


Tim Ferriss

199 snips
#760: Robert Rodriguez and Susan Cain
Mentioned by 

as a book on the writing process, focusing on structure.


Tim Ferriss

52 snips
#486: Harley Finkelstein — Tactics and Strategies from Shopify, The Future of Retail, and More
Mentioned by 

while discussing the writing process and research methods of acclaimed nonfiction writers.


Cal Newport

49 snips
Ep. 185: How Do I Escape Filter Bubbles?
Mentioned by 

as a book he prefers to read in a physical copy rather than on Kindle.


Cal Newport

20 snips
Ep. 183: Crazy or Deep?
Mentioned by 

as a book about writing, offering insights into the craft and the life of a writer.


Cal Newport

Ep. 188: The Books I Read in March 2022
Mentioned by ![undefined]()

as a source of inspiration for the structure of "A Very Bad Thing", specifically his approach to storytelling.

J.T. Ellison

The Secret to Writing Twists Readers Will Never Forget with Bestselling Author J.T. Ellison
Mentioned by 

as McPhee's guide to writing.


Noel Rubinton

Noel Rubinton, "Looking for a Story: A Complete Guide to the Writings of John McPhee" (Princeton UP, 2025)
Recommended by 

for its exploration of writing structure and thought.


Tim Ferriss

#445: Janna Levin on Extra Dimensions, Time Travel, and How to Overcome Boots in the Face
Mentioned by 

as a book that he did, which is in effect his guide to writing.


Noel Rubinton

Noel Rubinton, "Looking for a Story: A Complete Guide to the Writings of John McPhee" (Princeton UP, 2025)