Thomas Nevins

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Re: 1st Drafts: This may sound generational, and I guess it is, but I have come to find that a first draft written in long hand is the most useful. Not only is it easier and more convenient to translate thought into word with a pen and notebook, what one has written remains there even if at first glance it doesn't seem worthwhile. There's no rash delete key and the idea, phrase, whatever remains active and in play. One never knows when it might come into use and, like the teacher's say, the first answer is usually the correct one. - I was recently at a reading and discussion with John Irving where he spoke of his hand written first drafts too! For him, it was more a question of slowing him down to achieve a better result, to have more time to think about the words he was writing. Me, I haven't gotten THAT far yet, but the process of hand written first draft still works well. Thanks for reading! Tom 11/09

In answer to the question below: Hi and thanks for the question. For me the end of "Age" is about how acts of mercy can be their own reward. The Salter family is reunited, and really for the first time. That genuine acts of mercy done from the heart can save more than others. Without me knowing it until I was in revision any character who helps another is saved in the end. And like the wise Patsy said, "It's about time." Now I am not sure I answered you, if not ask me again, please? And you can send me a message through contact the author link on the right. Thanks, again, I appreciate the interest! Tom

Ques: what are you implying at the end of book

Hi there! And thanks for checking in. Re: Writing; I have found that when things get rough, it's good to get writing. When a situtaion is beyond my experience I find that writing it down can help sort it out. Writing formulates thought, and if I am confused, or unsure, translating uncertaintity into words can make the issue clearer. And it need not be restricted to the wrong, writing can help celebrate the right in one's life and serve as a warm reminder. So, in either case, but especially if the emotional and economic challenges of these troubled times have you perplexed, and you're not sure what to do, take out your own pad and pen and jot a few things down, you might find it helps. I have and thought I would pass that along. Let me know what you think? Thanks! Tom

Hi, thanks for coming to my site! When friends and co-workers speak to me about writing, they often say that they can't imagine writing a book while having a full time job. And, knowing the talent and taste of these folks, I think that some fine books aren't being written because of that opinion. A famous writer once said, "the key to good writing is getting your ass in the chair." And if one is a habitual creature and can get their ass in the chair each day, well, that's how good things start. I have found that by the practice and habit of writing, stories and characters happen. So, if you have an idea, or always wanted to write a book; sit down and start writing. Try it at night, and if you have time, take a look at what you wrote the next morning. Take it with you in your mind and imagination. This can help keep it fresh so that when you return to write that night you know where you are. Try it for a week and let me know what happens? Or if you have any questions, or advice of your own, please feel free to post it here, or contact me from the link to your right. Thanks, for reading! Have a good day, Tom

ANS: Re; Mercy/Redemption. Hi, Walt! First thing; thanks for reading THE AGE OF THE CONGLOMERATES, I appreciate it. I don't want to give too much away to those who may read my book, but after I was writing for awhile I noticed that the action of the characters created their futures beyond their intentions, or mine, especially characters like, the Lucky Brothers, Ichabod, Dr. Walters, and, of course, the Salter family. Until, finally, fate's sense of justice had its hand, and place, in the end. Or, it seemed to me, when all was said and done, Mercy = Redemption. I hope that explains it a little? Thanks for asking, Tom Nevins (Bklyn)

Hi, I read your book and wonder what you mean about mercy and redemption? Walt from NJ