There's no such thing as the contemporary novel. Before I seem the complete reactionary, let me add that I've happily joined in many discussions about 'the contemporary novel' where what that usually, unproblematically means is novels that have appeared recently or may appear soon. Graham Swift addappearcomplete share on social
When I am writing, I'm very much on the ground, on the same ground my characters are treading. Graham Swift charactergrindtread Change image and share on social
Today's news, which may be yesterday's anyway, will be eclipsed tomorrow. Graham Swift eclipsenewstoday Change image and share on social
The pen is very quick for getting stuff from your brain to the page. I can do hieroglyphics in the margin. There are days when I really enjoy the flow of ink. I mean, nice pen, ink straight on to the page. Graham Swift braindayenjoy share on social
In my work you often get an abrupt shift in time, a jolt. But the emotional logic will take the reader on. I hope. I trust. After all, our memories do not work with any sequential logic. Graham Swift abruptemotionalhope Change image and share on social
All novelists must form their personal pacts in some way with the slowness of their craft. There are some who demand of themselves a 'rate of production,' for whom it's a matter of pride to complete, say, a book every year. Graham Swift bookcompletecraft share on social
Of course there are times when I hate London, but equally there are times when I can walk 'round a corner and I really feel that this is my place. Graham Swift cornerequallyfeel Change image and share on social
My upbringing was absolutely not the archetypal writer's upbringing. Even, arguably, the opposite. Graham Swift absolutelyarchetypalarguably Change image and share on social
I think what I like to do is to begin with the ordinary and find the extraordinary in it. Graham Swift beginextraordinaryfind Change image and share on social
