Sept. 15, 2010
Author Jeff Guinn speaks to journalism students at Castellaw Communications Center. Guinn was on campus both Monday and Tuesday. Guinn's works include both fiction and nonfiction books.
By Jenna DeWitt
Arts and Entertianment Editor
Bestselling author Jeff Guinn spoke to five journalism classes this week as well as meeting with faculty, students and staff to discuss writing and his sixteenth book. The book, titled "The Last Gunfight," tells the story behind the legendary OK Corral and is scheduled to hit retailers in May 2011.
Q: With the developments in media and the effects of technology, the world of writing is changing. What do you see for the future of writing?
A: There's always going to be a future for writers. More and more, we are going to have e-books and newspapers being read online. You have to remember, before newspapers, travelling bards would go from town to town singing the news. Storytellers will always be around.
Q: What type of books do you write?
A: I write fiction and nonfiction, but all of my books are about real history and the way it is mythogized. It's fun.
Q: How many hours a day do you spend writing?
A: I usually spend about five hours a day writing, but I am thinking about what I'm writing every waking minute. Even though only a small portion of my time may be spent writing, thinking takes up a lot more time. For example, on my way home today I will be thinking about what I am going to write while I am driving, composing in my head.
Q: Do you have any advice for young writers?
A: Always be curious. If you are excited to write about things, it is always an adventure. Another thing is, you can't get discouraged. All of us get stories turned down or rejected.
Q: What would you say to Baylor students specifically?
A: I'm truly impressed by the quality of faculty here. My publisher is Simon and Schuster, I have one of the best editors, but to this day, I send all of my books to Mike Blackman [Baylor's Hartman Chair in journalism and media arts]. I hope all of you take advantage of these opportunities. You are being taught the right things.
Q: What is the next thing in your future?
A: I want to get better as a writer ... to write the best book I can. From the time I was 8 years old, I have wanted to do this.
From The Lariat Online published on Sept. 15, 2010