I reread the published version of The Martian Agent every few years and am always surprised that it’s a little longer than I remember and much shorter than I’d like.
I like 'em this way. This is like trays of lush esoteric appetizers circulating at a party we weren't sure we belonged at until we started taking bites. Then who cares who should be where. And while we might want more, the truth is we know each is just right, as it is.
Actually love this, as a lifelong procrastinator. But there is another reason I love incompleteness. Non Finito, something that has touch my sense of art going way back, seems to give a glimpse into a larger picture.
What would the consequences be if a lesser writer decided to finish the story behind one of these openings?
No one still living can say.
This is an anthology where writers who are also your fans finish each one. I bags Houdini or the zeppelin.
Outstanding first sentences!!! Writers, like me, take heed.
Offer a twist, something unexpected, set an intriguing tone. Make the reader hunger for the next sentence.
I reread the published version of The Martian Agent every few years and am always surprised that it’s a little longer than I remember and much shorter than I’d like.
Let’s hand these off. Release the chimps!
I feel better about the eight opened Word files currently grappling for my attention.
Thank you, sir.
I like 'em this way. This is like trays of lush esoteric appetizers circulating at a party we weren't sure we belonged at until we started taking bites. Then who cares who should be where. And while we might want more, the truth is we know each is just right, as it is.
What a gift this is! Thank you!🙏
Actually love this, as a lifelong procrastinator. But there is another reason I love incompleteness. Non Finito, something that has touch my sense of art going way back, seems to give a glimpse into a larger picture.
Completing the stories in 50 words or less could be a great party game.
I want to be turnt.
Some of these openers sound like hooks from a Dylan song. Second life potential?
Also, please finish Wolfboys and the 2025 short story. For a fan.
A pretty good primer on how to write an introductory sentence! How many blank sheets of paper did each of those take?
Now I don't feel so bad.
My God, Chabon, you're a genius, each one of these gems a poem!
The Martian Agent is a fave. Soooo good.