Fiction Writers Are Liars and Thieves

By Elmer Kelton and Elmer Keleton

"Someone has said that fiction by definition is a lie. By extension this means that fiction writers are liars. In that context, I will admit to it, and go a step further. I will say that fiction writers are thieves." With that opening confession, novelist Elmer Kelton, for over forty years a livestock journalist, discusses the relationship between his two careers and the way in which his journalistic writing served as a source for his novels. To illustrate, he reads from four of his novels-- The Time It Never Rained, The Day the Cowboys Quit, The Good Old Boys , and Manhunters --contrasting historical incidents with their use in his fiction. Both fact and fiction come alive when read in Kelton's West Texas voice, the same voice which distinguishes his fiction from most other western writing.

• Format: Audio Cassette
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0875651488
• ISBN13: 9780875651484
• Release Date: June 1995
• Publisher: Texas Christian University Press
• Weight: 0.26 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 4.3" x 7.0"

Customer Reviews

"An Essential Audio for Elmer Kelton Fans"

For Kelton fans, this audio like all of his others should not be missed. Unlike most authors, Mr. Kelton is a wonderful speaker. This audio elaborates on his writing style and the way he combines history, myth and folklore in his books. It offers valuable insights into his books and the way he borrows stories he has heard and people he has met for use in his outstanding novels like The Time It Never Rained, The Day the Cowboys Quit, etc. Plus a listener realizes what a fine, generous, and modest individual Mr. Kelton actually is which will further enrich each rereading of his books. I can't recommend this audio too highly. Any aspiring writer or fan of Western American literature will love listening to it as I do.