Title
Myself and Strangers: A Memoir of Apprenticeship,Used
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In Myself and Strangers, the much admired author of Goodbye to a River and other nonfiction classics recounts his long, winding journey toward becoming a writer in the years after WorldWar II.Drawing upon memory and his journals, Graves moves quickly through his early days in Texas and his brief dramatic stint in the Pacific with the marines. The story starts in earnest with the year after the war, when his quest to find himself takes him to Mexico, where he punches out his young mans recollections on an old portable typewriter, beginning a lifelong habit of looking inward, of observation and notetaking. We follow him to Martha Foleys famous short fiction class at Columbia University, and then to Europe, where he spends nearly three years in 1950s Spain, part of the expat communities of Mallorca, Madrid, and Tenerife, keeping the journals that form the basis of this memoir.We meet dozens of fascinating people: the large and generous Park Benjamin, who put him up in Mexico City; the restless, selfinvolved expatriates of Mallorca; Pepe Mut and other Spanish friends Graves sails and fishes with, and who allow him to become acquainted with the real Spain; and many other artists and writers, both famous and unknown.It is a time of serious work and serious play, but whether cheering at a bullfight, sipping a strong local wine at a Canary Island literary salon, or spearing crustaceans underwater, Graves never forgets his deepseated literary ambition. I would like so Goddamned much to write something worth writing, he says in an early journal entry. And we see him producing, despite many false starts, a stream of stories and articles and the beginning of a novel.By the end of Myself and Strangers, Graves has returned to Texas, where he finds both his true voice and the world that has become the focus of much of his admired work. Here is a wonderfully revealing portrait of a young writer on his wayof the strivings, struggles, and selfscrutiny that marked the beginning of an extraordinary literary career.
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- Q: What is the size of 'Myself and Strangers: A Memoir of Apprenticeship'? A: The book measures five point eight seven inches in length, zero point nine four inches in width, and eight point six six inches in height.
- Q: How many pages does this memoir have? A: This memoir contains two hundred fifty-six pages, providing a comprehensive look into the author's experiences.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is bound as a hardcover, ensuring durability and a quality feel.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Myself and Strangers'? A: The memoir explores the author's journey to becoming a writer, focusing on self-discovery and literary ambition.
- Q: Is 'Myself and Strangers' suitable for young readers? A: While the book is not specifically targeted at children, it is appropriate for older teens and adults interested in memoirs.
- Q: How can I best enjoy reading this memoir? A: Readers can enjoy this memoir during quiet moments or while reflecting on their own life journeys, as it offers deep insights.
- Q: How should I care for 'Myself and Strangers'? A: To keep the book in good condition, store it upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or smudges, avoiding any liquids.
- Q: What is the author's writing style in this memoir? A: The author's writing style is reflective and narrative, drawing from personal experiences and journals.
- Q: How does this memoir compare to other works by John Graves? A: This memoir is similar to Graves' other works, focusing on personal experiences and literary ambitions, but uniquely chronicles his early life.
- Q: Is this memoir a good choice for someone interested in writing? A: Yes, this memoir is an excellent choice for aspiring writers, as it delves into the author's creative process and challenges.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of 'Myself and Strangers'? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact customer service for a return or exchange.
- Q: Are there any specific genres this memoir fits into? A: This memoir fits into the genres of literary nonfiction and autobiographical writing, appealing to fans of personal stories.
- Q: What should I do if I have questions about the book's content? A: If you have questions about the book's content, consider checking online reviews or book discussion forums for insights.
- Q: Is there a digital version of this memoir available? A: Yes, 'Myself and Strangers' may be available in digital formats such as eBooks, depending on the retailer.