In the Agora: How Many Writers Would Do This?

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February 23, 2005

How Many Writers Would Do This?

Imagine holding a book open as it tries to collapse, straining to read the small print while you're probably stoned, and typing word-for-word, well, the book. The New York Times reveals this fact about how Hunter S. Thompson tried to find his voice.

And his suicide had its own terrible logic. A man who was so intent on generating a remarkable voice that he retyped Hemingway's novels just to understand how it was done, gave a final bit of dramatic tribute in turning a gun on himself.

That's so raw. Forget about classes with stuffed shirts parading like peacocks. Just pick up a book and type the darn thing.

Posted by PunchTheBag at February 23, 2005 06:26 PM

Comments

RIP

Posted by: C M at February 23, 2005 09:06 PM | permalink

Reverse-engineering novels. I like it!

Posted by: A Steve at February 24, 2005 02:43 AM | permalink

This reminds me of Jack Kerouac's writing style. I read his bio some years ago. Very interesting story. Who in the world would travel abroad and live the lifestyle like he did these days?
If you don't feel like typing a whole book then type a "120 foot roll" at once. Apparently Kerouac's "novel on a roll" will be on display in Las Vegas Public Library, March 24-May 15. Let's take a road trip!

jamescalvin

Posted by: james at February 24, 2005 12:07 PM | permalink

I've actually done thought, though on small scale with a wallace steven's poem and an aldous huxley essay. it really does help give an understanding of the structure and thought process that went into the language.

Posted by: Scof at February 25, 2005 04:29 AM | permalink

*done that, not done thought :)

Posted by: Scof at February 25, 2005 04:30 AM | permalink