How Many Writers Would Do This?
Posted by PunchTheBag on 23 February 2005 | 5 responses
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.
5 Responses to “How Many Writers Would Do This?”
RIP
Reverse-engineering novels. I like it!
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
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.
*done that, not done thought