First published in 1994, the book is an essential writing guide for generations of American writers, according to Amazon. The work compiles lectures from author and novelist Anne Lamott, currently 71 years old, alongside her creative experiences and observations from her writing classes. Interwoven with these lessons are Lamott's childhood memories with her father, who was also a writer.
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The Vietnamese edition, translated by Phuong Anh, was released in November by Dan Tri Publishing House in collaboration with First News. Photo: First News
The book's English title, "Bird by Bird", was inspired by a story from Lamott's childhood involving her brother. When he was only 10 years old, he needed to write a report on birds due in three months. The day before the deadline, he broke down, overwhelmed by the vast amount of work and research material. Their father, writer Kenneth Lamott, sat beside him and advised: "Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird".
Anne Lamott remembered her father's words, transforming the saying into her personal motto for life and writing. From then on, she believed that any task, big or small, could be accomplished by taking small, incremental steps. The author conveys this spirit in her book, delving into the nature and meaning of creativity with a witty approach. She also highlights common challenges in creative writing and suggests ways for readers to overcome them.
Trailer for the documentary "Bird by Bird with Annie: Anne Lamott". The project, based on the author's book "Bird by Bird", was directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Freida Lee Mock and released in 1999. Video: YouTube/ American Film Foundation
In one passage, Lamott compares embarking on writing to "the act of plunging into water when swimming". Initially, a writer might flail around, attempting various strokes they know. Afterward, they may feel overwhelmed by the difficulty of the situation. Yet, for her, the important thing is that they dared to jump in, are still trying to stay afloat, and are moving forward.
Anne Lamott's lessons extend beyond the writing process, serving as a guide for self-discovery. She instructs readers on how to cultivate patience, accept their worst selves, and confront their fears. The author views literature as an opportunity to embrace life's impermanence, finding a sense of "relief and exhilaration" rather than being "crushed by life time and again".
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Portrait of author Anne Lamott. Photo: Steven Barclay Agency
On the 25th anniversary of the book's release, Amazon reported that over one million readers, including writers of all ages and skill levels, have been inspired by Anne Lamott's humorous, sincere, and candid advice. On Goodreads, a reader noted that the author offers a warm, profound, and engaging perspective on the challenges writers face in their craft. Additionally, the work serves as a "devoted mentor," providing sound advice for aspiring writers.
Born in 1954, Anne Lamott is an American author who has published numerous non-fiction books, essay collections, and novels. Throughout her career, several of her books have appeared on The New York Times bestseller list, and she has been honored in the California Hall of Fame. She has taught at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), and written for the Washington Post. The author currently resides in California.
Phuong Thao
