From today’s New York Times Sunday Magazine:
Joyce Carol Oates: “If you’re going to spend the next year of your life writing, you would probably rather write ‘Moby Dick’ than a little household mystery with cat detectives.”
Oh, REALLY?? And have you ever tried writing a mystery with cats in it, Ms. Oates?
I’d rather be entertained by one of your cat mysteries than one of Joyce Carol Oates heavy duty dramatic novels any day!
I’ve always enjoyed mysteries featuring animals, and as a first time writer of a cat memoir, I’m truly impressed by the skill it takes to not only create a good mystery, but to weave in the animal portions without them being too cute and interfering with the story – something you’re doing masterfully in your books.
I also don’t understand why an established writer like JCO needs to lash out at other writers, even with a random comment like this one. I think there’s room enough in the world of books for all kinds of different writers and writing styles.
Honestly, I think it was an offhand comment and probably didn’t mean much to her — it just means something to those of us who write those books!! Best of luck with your own writing, however! Don’t be discouraged!