Christopher Schwarz, a furniture maker, writer, and publisher, shares fascinating insights into the worlds of woodworking and writing. He discusses how his craftsmanship informs his storytelling, emphasizing structured writing and the essence of quality in both books and furniture. The conversation delves into the significance of physical media in a digital age and the lost art of woodworking. Schwarz also highlights the value of ongoing learning and offers creative advice for aspiring writers, blending practical experiences with historical techniques.
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From Journalist to Furniture Maker
Christopher Schwarz started as a journalist before becoming a furniture maker and publisher.
He combined writing and woodworking, two low-paying professions, to earn a living.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Keep Day Job Before Leap
Keep your day job while building your own business for as long as possible.
Leave only when your current job destroys your soul to ensure a safer transition.
insights INSIGHT
Say Then Support In Writing
Good writing needs a clear statement upfront, then solid support.
This method ensures readers follow along instead of getting lost in the prose.
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The novel is set in a world where magic once thrived in England but has since disappeared. It follows the lives of two magicians, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, who bring magic back to England. Jonathan Strange is a young, adventurous, and impulsive magician, while Mr. Norrell is a cantankerous bookworm who wants magic to be better regulated. Their differing approaches to magic lead to a series of conflicts and adventures, including involvement in the Napoleonic wars and interactions with fairies. The story explores themes of magic, history, and the complexities of human relationships.
The Anarchist's Tool Chest
Christopher Schwarz
Christopher Schwarz's "The Anarchist's Tool Chest" is a comprehensive guide to building a traditional woodworking tool chest. It delves into the history and philosophy of hand tool woodworking, emphasizing the importance of quality tools and mindful craftsmanship. The book provides detailed instructions and illustrations for constructing a durable and functional chest, suitable for both beginners and experienced woodworkers. It also explores the broader themes of craftsmanship, sustainability, and the rejection of mass-produced goods. The book encourages readers to appreciate the value of well-made tools and the satisfaction of creating something lasting with their own hands.
The Bookmakers
The Bookmakers
Adam Smith
This season, we’ve been exploring different approaches to writing through the lens of other crafts and their respective toolkits. We had the pleasure of speaking with furniture-maker, writer, and publisher Christopher Schwarz. Christopher is an incredible artist, writer, and is also the founder of Lost Arts Press, which publishes books on hand tool woodworking.
We talked with Christopher about his creative trajectory, and the intersection of tools, methods, and crafts.
P.S. Want to come write with us in 2025?! Our retreat registration is open, and we are starting to fill up! We are going to unlock our creative processes in Minnesota and explore Story Refinement as we cruise down the Mexican Riviera! Learn more here.
Credits: Your hosts for this episode were DongWon Song and Howard Tayler. Your guest was Christopher Schwarz. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.
Writing Excuses 
