Somehow the folks at Splinters have convinced Will Self to blog. Let’s hope he doesn’t fizzle out after a few posts.
Self Reflection
– June 20, 2006Posted in: Self, Will
About the Author
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Books To Jump Up and Down Over
Being Wrong by Kathryn Schulz: Being wrong, as it turns out, isn't just the other variable in a binary opposition. Indeed, the relationship between our beliefs and the vast body of knowledge is one of humanity's big problems, but, at times, one of its great virtues. This thoughtful volume outlines numerous examples of human folly, from end-of-the-world prophets to ocular misperception, and makes a strong case for becoming more transparent about human fallibility, even when the results can be quite deadly. (Bat Segundo interview)
The Invisible Bridge by Julie Orrigner: This sweeping epic, which has been rightly identified in some corners as a "Holocaust page turner," puts to rest any and all rumors that the historical novel is dead. Orringer's great talent for balancing fine Romantic details, a vigorous synthesis of prewar Paris and Magyar strife, and Nazi brutality demonstrates a remarkable evolution from her previous short story collection, How to Breathe Underwater, and makes this a must read. (Bat Segundo interview)
If I Loved You, I Would Tell You This by Robin Black: Forget Wells Tower. Robin Black's marvelous short story collection, which has been needlessly ignored by The New York Times and The Washington Post, is very much on the level: far better than anything written by that lumbering Young Turk. These subtle stories have the maturity to avoid belabored metaphors and neat conclusions, revealing numerous nuances about the human condition in its careful use of understated language. (Bat Segundo interview)
My dearest Uncle Belton Miles Sr.
A frank admission, Mr. Self does often start out quite strong – you will admit. But, what can be said about his predictable and swift limp to the finish. I think Will Self needs a good rewrite man, a hollywood type that can get in there, maybe get Bruce Willis involved, and finish his stories with a bang – maybe even a car chase and/or explosion or two. Let’s call him, and see what he thinks.