NEWSNIGHT: Kirsty Wark interviews author Donna Tartt about 'The Goldfinch'

Summary

In this candid interview, the writer reflects on their writing process, discussing their ability to write in any setting, from libraries to buses. They share insights on the importance of daily writing, the value of note-taking, and the intense, sometimes lonely, dedication to their craft. The conversation touches on the challenges of writing, including dealing with setbacks and the pursuit of balance. The writer also emphasizes the importance of both speed and density in literature, as well as the essential role of secrets in storytelling.

Takeaways

• 😀 Writing can happen anywhere, whether in a spare chair, on public transportation, or in the bathtub.
• 😀 The New York Public Library is a favorite space for writing due to its inspiration from people walking by and the access to reference books.
• 😀 Writing routines can be flexible, but the speaker writes every day, even if only in short bursts or notes.
• 😀 Carrying a notebook at all times is essential to capture fleeting thoughts, as they might never come back.
• 😀 Notes are often just fragments or 'bits and Bobs,' but they can eventually lead to fully developed ideas or pages of prose.
• 😀 Writing at night is preferred, and the speaker compares the act of writing to gambling, not wanting to leave a good streak.
• 😀 The speaker writes consistently every day, but not always in long blocks of finished prose—it's often in smaller, scattered pieces.
• 😀 The process of writing often involves working through many failed ideas, with the 'bad' work being necessary to eventually create something good.
• 😀 Writing is not a sacrifice but a source of great personal satisfaction, and the speaker feels fortunate to dedicate time to it.
• 😀 Every book has a secret at its core, and the speaker aims to create a reading experience that is both fun and deeply constructed, with a balance of speed and depth.

Q & A

What is the writer’s approach to finding places to write?

The writer has a flexible approach to where they can write. They mention being able to write anywhere, whether it’s curled up in a corner, on a bus, or in a bathtub. The New York Public Library, particularly the Allen Room, is mentioned as one of the most inspiring places for writing.

Why does the writer find the New York Public Library to be a good place to work?

The writer enjoys the atmosphere of the library because it offers both reference materials and a wealth of characters. The people walking through the library serve as inspiration for creating characters, and it is a place where the writer can observe real-life interactions.

Does the writer follow a strict routine when working at home?

While the writer does not have a rigid routine, they mention writing every day. Even when hosting guests, they make time to retreat to their workspace. The writer’s focus on writing daily is consistent, though life occasionally intervenes.

What is the significance of the writer's notebook?

The writer carries a notebook with them at all times, using it to jot down fleeting thoughts and ideas. They describe these notes as 'bits and bobs' or 'glintings' that may not end up in finished work but are crucial for capturing inspiration.

How does the writer feel about writing at night?

The writer is a self-described 'night writer.' They find that if they are on a creative streak, they don’t want to stop, likening it to a gambler’s desire to stay at the table. However, if the day has been difficult, they may take a break from writing.

Has the writer experienced difficulties or setbacks in their writing process?

Yes, the writer has encountered difficult periods, including a time when they realized they had taken a wrong direction in their work. This led to eight months of work that ultimately didn't make it into the final manuscript, but was essential for reaching the desired outcome.

What metaphor does the writer use to explain the invisible work behind writing?

The writer uses the metaphor of an iceberg, famously employed by Hemingway. They explain that, like the iceberg, much of the work put into a book is invisible to the reader but is crucial for the depth and structure of the final piece.

What role does the writer's emotional state play in their creative process?

The writer mentions that they might not appear as balanced when they are in the middle of working on a book. The intense focus required during such times can make them seem less grounded, but they are clear that this is a natural part of their writing process.

What does the writer aim to achieve with their books?

The writer hopes that readers will have fun while reading, experiencing that childlike excitement of turning pages eagerly. They emphasize that a book should be both enjoyable and well-constructed, combining speed with density.

What does the writer believe all books have at their core?

The writer believes that all books are about secrets. They argue that every book holds a mystery, whether it’s explicitly stated or hidden beneath the surface. This adds an element of depth and intrigue to their writing.