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samchase112's review against another edition
3.5
What I want to say is that in a certain sense, while the novelist is creating a novel, he is simultaneously being created by the novel as well.
Ah, another lovely essay collection-turned-memoir by Haruki Murakami! Despite not being a budding novelist or even creative writer myself, I've been listening to various "about writing by a writer" books lately. This one was definitely a must-listen. I generally enjoy hearing Murakami's thoughts on these topics, and especially about his own process as a writer, and this collection did not disappoint in that regard. I did find myself tuning sections out, probably because it is a series of serialized essays bundled up into one volume, but I think that's more to do with me reading straight through in only a few days rather than the book itself. (What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is definitely my favorite of his nonfiction pieces, likely because it's so short and well-contained; this collection kinda didn't compare, but I'm always on the lookout for another Murakami piece to make me as excited.) Overall, I enjoyed learning a bit more about Japanese publishing and Murakami's own experiences as a writer, became inspired to read more of his novels, and got a few chuckles in as well. Time well spent!
But since I do happen to have a bit of an ability to write novels and have had some good luck on my side, plus a stubborn streak — or, to put it more nicely, a consistency that's proved helpful — I've been able, over 35 years, to write novels as a profession.
Content Warnings
Minor: Suicide