Whether it's the simplest of prohibitions (don't use too many adjectives), or a cherished writing maxim (show, don't tell), all writers have a rule of thumb that guides their work. In this book, more than 70 contemporary writers share their own insight and revelations, offering insider tips and advice. Writers Jiro Adachi Steve Almond John Barth Steven Barthelme Janet Burroway Robert Olen Butler Lydia Davis Stephen Dixon Molly Giles Robin Hemley Brian Kiteley Bret Lott Paul Maliszewski Erin McGraw Pablo Medina Ander Monson Rick Moody Stewart O'Nan Gina Ochsner Thisbe Nissen Scott Russell Sanders Barb Shoup Joan Silber Joseph Skibell Melanie Rae Thom Steve Tomasula Jane Yolen
Author
Michael A. Martone is a professor at the creative writing program at the University of Alabama, and is the author of several books. His most recent work, titled Michael Martone and originally written as a series of contributor's notes for various publications, is an investigation of form and autobiography. A former student of John Barth, Martone's work is critically regarded as powerful and funny. Making use of Whitman's catalogues and Ginsberg's lists, the events, moments and places in Martone's landscapes—fiction or otherwise—often take the same Mobius-like turns of the threads found the works of his mentor, Barth.
