Book · 2013 · Literary Collections
Forty-One False Starts
Essays on Artists and Writers
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Why people recommend it
Forty-One False Starts is a compelling collection of essays and profiles by renowned journalist and author Janet Malcolm, widely celebrated for her sharp investigative eye and deep psychological acuity regarding her subjects. On an episode of The Book Review titled An Outsider Finds Suspense in Hollywood, published on July 18, 2024, critics discussed the enduring brilliance of Malcolm's nonfiction writing. Jennifer Szalai spoke on the podcast to express her deep fondness for the compilation, highlighting how it gathers a remarkable number of incisive profiles, particularly focusing on various artists. Building on this praise, fellow critic Parul Sehgal also recommended the book during the same conversation on The Book Review. Sehgal noted that for readers seeking shorter biographical sketches and portraits, this specific volume serves as a wonderful and accessible entry point into Malcolm's larger body of work. Both speakers underscored the enduring appeal of Malcolm's distinct journalistic style, which continues to captivate new generations of readers and writers looking for masterclasses in literary nonfiction, profile writing, and cultural observation through the lens of one of the twentieth century's most formidable literary minds.
Every mention
Jennifer Szalai I really love the collection 41 false starts which is the one that includes a number of profiles especially… 1
“I really love the collection 41 false starts which is the one that includes a number of profiles especially of artists”
Parul Sehgal and then if you're looking for shorter profiles 41 fall starts uh is is a great way in I think 1
“and then if you're looking for shorter profiles 41 fall starts uh is is a great way in I think”
