The Luminous Novel

Perhaps the luminous novel is this thing that I started writing today, just now. Maybe these sheets of paper are a warm-up exercise. [] But its quite possible that if I go on writing - as I usually do - with no plan, although this time I know very well what I want to say, things will start to take shape, to come together. I can feel the familiar taste of a literary adventure in my throat. Ill take that as confirmation, then, and start describing what I think was the beginning of my spiritual awakening - though nobody should expect religious sermons at this point; theyll come later. It all began with some ruminations prompted by a dog.A writer attempts to complete the novel for which he has been awarded a big fat Guggenheim grant, though for a long time he succeeds mainly in procrastinating getting an electrician to rewire his living room so he can reposition his computer, buying an armchair, or rather, two: In one, you cant possibly read: its uncomfortable and your back ends up crooked and sore. In the other, you cant possibly relax: the hard backrest means you have to sit up straight and pay attention, which makes it ideal if you want to read.Insomniacs, romantics and anyone whos ever written (or failed to write) will fall in love with this compelling masterpiece told by a true original, with all his infuriating faults, charming wit and intriguing musings.