Elizabeth McCracken, an acclaimed author known for works such as “The Giant’s House,” recently shared insights about her latest book, “A Long Game: Notes on Writing Fiction.” McCracken, who holds the James A. Michener Chair in Fiction at the University of Texas at Austin, aims to connect with readers through her unique perspective on the writing process.
In a recent conversation, McCracken reflected on her new publication, emphasizing its dual role as both a guide for aspiring writers and an enjoyable read for general audiences. “My book is a guide to writing, sort of, full of advice and opinions, a little cranky, though all the crankiness is meant to be encouraging,” she noted. The book is structured into 280 sections, complete with an index to facilitate navigation.
Writing for Joy and Utility
When asked about the book’s appeal, McCracken acknowledged that it evolved beyond its initial intent. “It wasn’t that way at the start… Once I started writing without aiming it at writers, I began to enjoy the process,” she explained. This shift allowed her to craft a narrative that resonates with both writers and readers alike.
McCracken also discussed the personal impact of writing “A Long Game.” She described the act of writing as a means of organizing her thoughts, echoing the sentiment of famed author Joan Didion, who stated, “I write to find out what I am thinking.” McCracken acknowledged that while her earlier drafts may have been cynical, the final product emerged as a genuine reflection of her experiences.
The past year saw McCracken serving as a judge for the National Book Awards, a role that required her to read a significant number of submissions. While she is bound by confidentiality regarding the judging process, she expressed admiration for all the titles considered. “I think the best book published last year is Yiyun Li’s extraordinary ‘Things in Nature Merely Grow,’” she said, highlighting a standout work from the shortlist.
Literary Influences and Future Reading
Throughout her career, McCracken has accumulated a list of recommended reads that she often shares with others. She mentioned two small yet impactful books: “Utz” by Bruce Chatwin and “Maud Martha” by Gwendolyn Brooks. These selections reflect her appreciation for concise storytelling and rich character development.
Currently, McCracken is engrossed in “Monster of a Land” by Lauren Hough, set to be published in 2026. She described it as reminiscent of “Travels With Charley” but with Hough’s unique voice. When it comes to choosing her next read, McCracken noted that the decision often feels serendipitous, with books finding their way to her.
Reflecting on her own reading journey, McCracken recalled the profound impact of “Eloise” by Kay Thompson during her childhood. The book, which features a spirited young girl living in a hotel, resonated with McCracken for its blend of fantasy and complex emotion.
Regarding her reading preferences, McCracken admitted to a reluctance to tackle massive historical novels, particularly those set before 1400. Yet, she expressed a fondness for “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” demonstrating her nuanced taste in literature.
Memorable literary experiences also shape McCracken’s journey. She recounted being the first person to read her friend Ann Patchett’s “Bel Canto,” an event she vividly remembers for its emotional weight. “I swear I still remember the angle of the light through the window and my own angle to the bar,” she reflected, emphasizing the transformative power of literature.
As McCracken continues to explore the literary landscape, her recommendations and insights serve as a guiding light for readers and writers alike. With her latest book, she invites them to join her in the ongoing conversation about storytelling, creativity, and the written word.
