Tommie W. Whitener

They tell beginning writers they should write about what they know. Maybe that’s the reason there are so many short stories and novels about writers. They write about themselves. While I hope I never write a short story or novel about a writer, I certainly intend to continue to draw on what I have come to know through observation and experience during my now getting-to-be-quite-lengthy lifetime.

A quick review of my stories and memoirs posted here will show that I have written about, for example, one of my law clients (names and circumstances changed, of course), a hunting trip gone wrong, a trip to Dubai, a Chekov short story, and weapons inside San Quentin. I have personally known all of these situations (well, maybe not a pharmacy in nineteenth century Russia, but I do speak Russian). Other short stories in the works include ones about a would-be starlet looking for her first role, terrifying fear, a successful LA lawyer’s trip to Arkansas to see his parents, and overwhelming, uncontrollable anger. I have known some of these.

In the future, among many, many other things, I intend to explore my southern roots, the growing up in LA phenomenon and, yes, love.

I would appreciate your comments. Let me know what you liked and what you didn’t, what worked for you and what didn’t. I’m trying to become the best writer I can be and the judge of that is you. Above, all want to be interesting and relevant. Please tell me how I’m doing.

3 Responses
  1. Penny Dufficy sent me your website as my oldest son, George, is about to have his first novel published on March 6, 2018. Writes under name Jack Carr and title of his first fiction book is The Terminal List. Simon & shutter liked it so much they have paid him for a sequel which he is now working on.
    I don’t know if you remember me Tommie but our paths crossed in Marin County back in the 70’s and 80’s as lawyers. I’m glad you are writing and just wanted to say hi. Good luck with all of your endeavors, George

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