Stephen Vizinczey, author of "Truth and Lies on Literature," has come out with his version of his Ten Commandments for writers. On top of the list is the following: 1. Thou shall not drink, smoke or take drugs. To be a writer, you need all the brains you've got.
One of the best writers in literature (short story and poems) is American Edgar Allan, who was said to have written his best writings under the influence of liquor. In the Philippines, the great Nick Joaquin, author of the memorable "May Day Eve" was a beer drinker, and chain-smoking Blas Ople, a Labor secretary during the reign of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos, was considered one of the country's best writers.
But these writers are exceptional because of what probably were God-given talents. Vizinczey's advice, of course, is practical guide that should not taken for granted. For one, it's good for the health.
No comments:
Post a Comment