Workshop 17: James McBride

11 snips

May 4, 2016

James McBride, a National Book Award-winning author and musician, shares insights from his latest biography on James Brown. He discusses the challenges of capturing accurate details through research while juggling personal commitments as a single father. McBride emphasizes the discipline of rewriting and the need for intrinsic motivation over external validation. The conversation also touches on the impactful role of writers during wartime, reflecting on the deeper fulfillment that comes from a career in both literature and music.

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ADVICE

First Sentence Importance

Aim your first sentence in the right direction, framing the story.
Your characters might run away with you otherwise.

ADVICE

Rewriting

Rewrite everything, especially after writing the first 30-40 pages.
Ensure that the building blocks of your story are solid.

ANECDOTE

Disciplined Routine

James McBride maintains a disciplined writing routine as a single father.
He gets up early, exercises, cares for his son, and writes until he gets sleepy.

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Bird by Bird

Some Instructions on Writing and Life

Anne Lamott

Susan Bennett

Bird by Bird is a comprehensive guide to writing that covers various aspects of the craft, from the initial stages of starting a project to the technical details of plot, character, and dialogue. Lamott emphasizes the importance of persistence, faith, and hard work in writing. She advocates for writing imperfect first drafts and warns against the pitfalls of perfectionism and self-criticism. The book also delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of writing, encouraging writers to confront their deepest fears and desires. Lamott's approach is down-to-earth, humorous, and generously filled with personal experiences and practical advice.

Aspects of the Novel

E. M. Forster

In 'Aspects of the Novel', E.M. Forster discusses the seven universal aspects of the novel: story, people, plot, fantasy, prophecy, pattern, and rhythm. The book is a compilation of lectures delivered at Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1927. Forster explores these elements using examples from classic texts, emphasizing the importance of character, the distinction between story and plot, and the role of fantasy and prophecy in novels. He also discusses the structural elements of pattern and rhythm, and how they contribute to the overall aesthetic experience of the novel. Forster's approach is characterized by his casual and insightful style, making the book valuable for both readers and writers of fiction[2][4][5].

Kill Him and Leave

Searching for James Brown and the American Soul

James McBride

James McBride's "Kill Him and Leave" is a biography of the iconic soul singer James Brown. The book delves into Brown's complex life, exploring his musical genius, his turbulent personal relationships, and his impact on American culture. McBride uses a combination of meticulous research and vivid storytelling to paint a portrait of a man who was both a revolutionary performer and a deeply flawed individual. The biography offers insights into Brown's creative process, his struggles with fame and fortune, and his enduring legacy. It's a compelling read for music lovers and anyone interested in the intersection of race, music, and American history.