Ask the Author: Thomas K. Murphy
Answered Questions (5)
Thomas K. Murphy
We are stranded on an island, just my father, mother in law, brother, sister and me. All but me and my sis enter into a suicide pact.
Thomas K. Murphy
I am working on 3 projects. One is a short play that brings, or rather, revisits the "Friends" television comedy into 2019. The second is an examination of the history of masculinity and masculine values in the US and how the changing status of men is affecting our thought and politics. Third, I am working on a novel about working in a restaurant, set in 1983 Bethesda, MD.
Thomas K. Murphy
Some of my advice might seem pedestrian....enjoy what you do, because you will be doing a lot of it; write about things that actually matter to you, as you will be living with these subjects for weeks, months and years. Have something to say. Realize that the world owes you nothing - so do it for you, and hope that an audience recognizes your efforts. Be persistent, and try hard not to take a rejection or two (or ten) as a personal affront. This is hard, admittedly. Try to see your vision through.
Thomas K. Murphy
Certainly independence, being one's own boss, and setting one's own schedule. It isn't for everyone, certainly, and it requires a lot of self discipline....more than I have sometimes!
The act of writing can be inspiring and interesting. But generally, it is a dutiful, laborious act for me. The real payoff is when the work is done. I agree with E. Hemingway, who said that he "hated writing, but loved having written." It is indeed a great feeling to look back on a labor of love.
The act of writing can be inspiring and interesting. But generally, it is a dutiful, laborious act for me. The real payoff is when the work is done. I agree with E. Hemingway, who said that he "hated writing, but loved having written." It is indeed a great feeling to look back on a labor of love.
Thomas K. Murphy
My answer: stop writing for an hour. Have a tea or a beer (coffee doesn't help). If, after an hour, I feel nothing, pass until the next day. Sometimes jogging helps, as does (oddly) gardening! I tend to produce more in negative moods than in good moods. Wish it were not that way.
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