Let the Crazy Child Write!: Finding Your Creative Writing Voice

by Clive Matson

In spite of its whimsical title, this book is a solid, in-depth course in creative writing. The 12 chapters cover image detail, slow motion, hook, persona, point of view, dialogue, plot, narrative presence, good cliches, character, surrealism, and resolution. Each opens with a discussion of the topic at hand, followed by an exercise, and finishes with a workshop section in which the reader is encouraged to work with at least one other person to get helpful feedback. For individuals, workshops, and classes, this is the first how-to-write book to give full credit to the creative unconscious since Becoming a Writer, the 1934 classic by Dorothea Brande.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

256 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1998

About the author

Clive Matsons (MFA Columbia University) first book, Mainline to the Heart (1966) was published by Diane di Primas Poets Press. Members of the Beat Generation were his teachers. Clive teaches creative writing, using his text, Let the Crazy Child Write! (1998). His seventh volume of poems, Squish Boots (2002), was placed, amazingly, in the coffin of his mentor, John Wieners. Chalcedonys First Ten Songs (2007) is his current enthusiasm, a passionate, erotic and spiritual voice.

Reviews

[Kate]

A fun and simple approach to improving your writing.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want my own copy.

[Brett Buckley · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's one of those one trick pony books, but it's a worthwhile trick and the first few chapters are engrossing and worthwhile.

[Suzanne Langlois · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this book and writing my way through the exercises is equivalent to taking a writing workshop with a favorite author. Fun, informative, valuable instruction all in one 266 page paperback that you'll dip into again and again through your writing career.