My task as a novelist

October 20, 2011

I just saw a quote attributed to the new MAN Booker prizewinning novelist, Julian Barnes.

‘When you are writing fiction your task is to reflect the fullest complications of the world’ – Julian Barnes

Alas, my own tasks are not looking quite so important:

Task today: check final proofs for print edition of Brief Encounters, prepare 5 min talk on research for Festival of Romance, go to dentist (yuk), decide what to wear tomorrow that’s smart, comfortable and suitable for train, hotel and marquee, pack books for bookstall, face getting up at 6am to get train with no trolley service. Shall I take a flask? Can I survive on the London Midland for 1hr 47 mins without caffeine at that hour?

Comments

1. On October 20th, 2011 at 7:18 am
   Liz Fenwick Says:
   

   ah the realities of the ‘normal writer’….

   lx

   ps I’d take a flask!

2. On October 20th, 2011 at 8:59 am
   Nell Dixon Says:
   

   My tasks would require a roll of wallpaper to list them all. Can’t wait to see you tomorrow at the festival!

3. On October 20th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
   Rosy Thornton Says:
   

   Have fun at the festival!

4. On October 21st, 2011 at 2:08 am
   Stevie Carroll Says:
   

   See you soon!

5. On October 21st, 2011 at 3:46 pm
   Debs Carr Says:
   

   Lol. That list is ratty lengthy, good luck with it all.