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99 reviews
July 15,2025
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You guys, I am such a dork that for years I coveted the four-book collection set of these Paris Review interviews.

They've been sitting in my Amazon wish list since like, 2009. But they're stupidly expensive, like, $150 for the set. So yeah, wishful thinking is right.

Imagine my surprise when I discovered our local library has them! Recently I dived into this one and was glad I didn't purchase them because in the time I had it checked out, I found myself devouring a few, skimming others, and straight up not reading some because well, my interests just didn't align with their work. Why oh why will I forever struggle to 'get' poetry? I read the TS Eliot interview and was like, 'huh?'

In regards to these collections, I must add that I LOVE reading interviews. I also love interviewing, something I do practically every day for my job and have for years as a journalist/writer. If you ever meet me, expect me to pepper you with questions. I'm curious by nature and it's what I do. I also love getting a sneak peek into a creative's working life, so these are great for that as they're especially good at painting a scene of the artist in his/her work environment at the time the interview was conducted, many in this volume from the 50s-60s.

I especially loved the Capote and Hemingway interviews, but my absolute favorite is the Vonnegut one included in this book. (You MUST read it.) Alas, I didn't get to the Didion interview before I had to return it. Next time.....

July 15,2025
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In the middle of the 1950s, a group of young American intellectuals created a magazine called The Paris Review.

These authors could hardly have had the perception that they were giving birth to a new approach to literature and that from then on it would constitute the most extraordinary archive of the fascination that a literary interview can achieve.

The interviewees in this edition and the date of the interview are as follows:

In 1952, E. M. Forster. In 1953, Graham Greene. In 1956, William Faulkner. In 1957, Truman Capote. In 1958, Ernest Hemingway. In 1959, Lawrence Durrell. In 1960, Boris Pasternak. In 1965, Saul Bellow. In 1966, Jorge Luis Borges. In 1968, Jack Kerouac.

These interviews not only provide valuable insights into the minds and works of these great literary figures but also offer a unique perspective on the literary landscape of that era. They serve as a testament to the power of the written word and the importance of literary conversation.
July 15,2025
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The Art of Fiction stands as the unrivaled gold standard in the realm of writers' interviews. It offers remarkable snippets that provide deep insights into the lives, idiosyncrasies, obsessions, and quirks of some of the most杰出的 writers in recent history.

For passionate readers, it is a highly recommended read that enriches their understanding and appreciation of the literary world. However, for aspiring writers, it is an absolute must-have.

By delving into the minds and creative processes of these great writers, budding authors can gain valuable inspiration, learn about different writing techniques, and understand the challenges and joys that come with the craft.

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It serves as a guiding light, leading them on their journey towards becoming accomplished writers themselves.
July 15,2025
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Fantástica selección de autores. Traducción impoluta.


We are proud to present a fantastic selection of authors. Each one of them is a master in their field, with unique writing styles and captivating stories.


Accompanying these great authors is an immaculate translation. Our team of professional translators has worked tirelessly to ensure that every word and nuance is accurately conveyed, so that readers can enjoy the full beauty and depth of the original works.


Whether you are a lover of fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, you are sure to find something to delight and inspire you in this collection. So come and explore the wonderful world of literature with us!

July 15,2025
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If in-depth interviews with respected authors is what you're searching for,

The Paris Review Interviews, I: 16 Celebrated Interviews will more than satisfy.

The personalities of Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote, Kurt Vonnegut, Joan Didion, Saul Bellow and a host of others are revealed over a period of time through the thoughtful questions posed by The Paris Review.

Internationally renowned writers agreed to participate solely because the periodical looked upon the interviews as collaborative in nature and would, when published, serve as well-rounded self-portraits rather than a series of sound bytes, or worse yet, confrontations.

As a writer, I found fascinating the descriptions by authors on how they best worked with their editors.

The compendium was great company. I will definitely seek out Volume 2.

These interviews offer a unique glimpse into the minds and creative processes of some of the most influential writers of our time.

Readers can gain valuable insights into their writing habits, inspirations, and the challenges they faced along the way.

The Paris Review Interviews, I is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of writing and the lives of great writers.

It provides a rich and engaging experience that will leave you wanting more.

So, if you're looking for a captivating and informative read, look no further than The Paris Review Interviews, I.

You won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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What else can be compared to reading these famous writers' interviews? It is truly a fascinating experience.

Hearing them share their bookish pet peeves gives us an insight into their unique perspectives and the things that bother them in the literary world.

Their writing experiences are equally captivating, as they reveal the challenges they faced, the inspiration they found, and the techniques they used to bring their stories to life.

Moreover, sharing their love of authors and books allows us to discover new literary treasures and understand the impact that certain works have had on their lives.

These interviews offer a window into the minds of some of the greatest writers of our time, and they provide valuable lessons and inspiration for aspiring writers and book lovers alike.

So, the next time you have the opportunity to read a famous writer's interview, don't hesitate.

Immerse yourself in their words and let their stories and ideas transport you to a world of literary wonder.

July 15,2025
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I truly LOVE reading writer's interviews at this level of thoughtfulness.

It is such a fascinating experience to gain insights into the minds of these creative individuals. Their profound thoughts and unique perspectives often offer a new lens through which to view the world of literature.

In these interviews, writers share their inspirations, the challenges they face during the writing process, and their interpretations of their own works. It is like peeking behind the curtain and seeing the inner workings of their creative genius.

Moreover, reading such interviews can also be a source of motivation and inspiration for aspiring writers. It shows that with dedication, hard work, and a deep love for the craft, one can achieve great things in the world of writing.

Overall, I find these interviews to be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in literature and the creative process. They offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration that can enhance our understanding and appreciation of the written word.
July 15,2025
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The Paris Review has been conducting interviews with notable authors and screenwriters since at least the 1950s.

What makes it unique is that they allow the authors to review and edit the interviews as they see fit.

This particular volume features a remarkable lineup of literary greats, including Hemingway, Didion, Richard Price, Capote, Robert Stone, Billy Wilder, and many others.

These interviews offer a fascinating glimpse into the minds and creative processes of some of the most influential figures in literature and film.

Readers can gain valuable insights into their writing methods, inspirations, and views on the art of storytelling.

The Paris Review's commitment to providing a platform for these in-depth conversations has made it an essential resource for anyone interested in the world of literature and screenwriting.
July 15,2025
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This was a late Christmas present from Cassie--thanks Cassie!--and it was truly wonderful to get a peek into the characteristics and mannerisms of some of my favorite authors.

I'm one of those individuals who loves to learn about the lives of writers to understand how they've influenced their work. However, if you're not like me and prefer to let the work speak for itself, you might still find these interviews enjoyable. Many of them are not necessarily biographical or about the writer's process or inspiration. Instead, a lot of them deal with what the writer thinks about the world in general and, more specifically, what they think about other writers.

The Paris Review interview style is also something worth exploring. They are far more engaging, descriptive, discerning, or perceptive than the typical Q&A-style interviews found in other magazines. The subject of the interview has a significant amount of input into the final draft's appearance and sound. In some cases, these interviews are heavily rewritten, edited multiple times, and often pieced together from a series of interviews that sometimes spanned decades.

Another reason I relished reading this collection was that it sparked my interest in some other writers I might have taken much longer to get around to reading, namely Joan Didion and William Styron (not interviewed in this collection but mentioned by Dorothy Parker; Styron, incidentally, is one of the co-founders of the Paris Review).

Overall, this collection of interviews provides a unique and fascinating look into the minds of some of the greatest writers of our time.
July 15,2025
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Hemingway, Borges, Vonnegut, Bellow...

These literary giants, when interviewed, offer a wealth of insights.

Hemingway might speak of his简洁 and powerful writing style, influenced by his experiences in war and adventure.

Borges could share his complex and mysterious literary world, filled with labyrinths of thought.

Vonnegut might discuss his unique blend of satire and science fiction, influenced by his own view of a chaotic and absurd world.

Bellow could talk about his exploration of the human condition, his deep understanding of the psyche.

Listening to their words about their influences, writing process, view on literature and everything else is truly a fascinating experience.

It gives us a glimpse into the minds of some of the greatest writers of our time and helps us better understand the art of literature.

Very, very good.
July 15,2025
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These interviews are truly the gifts that keep on giving.

They offer a wealth of valuable insights and perspectives that can have a profound impact on our lives. Through these interviews, we get to hear the stories, experiences, and wisdom of people from all walks of life.

We learn about their successes and failures, their joys and sorrows, and the lessons they have learned along the way.

These interviews can inspire us, motivate us, and help us to see the world in a different light.

They can also provide us with practical advice and tips on how to achieve our goals, overcome our challenges, and live a more fulfilling life.

Whether we are looking for inspiration, education, or entertainment, these interviews have something to offer.

They are a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration that we can return to again and again.

So the next time you come across an interview, take the time to listen or read it carefully.

You never know what valuable gift it might have in store for you.
July 15,2025
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I am reading this book chapter by chapter, taking it little by little, just like savoring a box of truly excellent and extremely expensive chocolates. Each chapter is a delight, and I find myself completely immersed in the story. The Hemingway interview within the book is truly a gem and is well worth the price of the entire volume.

Nov. 2009: Now I have delved into GEORGE BEING GEORGE, a book that is equally as delicious as the previous one. It is about George Plimpton and must be read in conjunction with the PARIS REVIEW interviews. I was so engrossed in it that I simply could not put it down. The combination of the two provides a comprehensive and fascinating look into the world of literature and the minds of some of its greatest figures.

I am thoroughly enjoying this literary journey and look forward to seeing what other treasures await me as I continue to read.
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