Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Lamb Of God frontman Randy Blythe about to start work for his second book
Lamb Of God frontman Randy Blythe has written a lengthy post to Instagram stating that he has started writing his second book. Blythe, whose 2015 memoir, “Dark Days: A Memoir”, focused on his ordeal in a Czech Republic prison and his subsequent acquittal had the following to say about his next book project:
“It’s been six years since my 1st book, Dark Days, came out. I’ve been kinda busy but I can’t screw around any longer- it’s finally time to write a new one. The proposal is done, the publishers accepted it, & the contract is hammered out & in the mail.
“Shit- that means I actually have to write this thing! All I’ll say is: A) it’s another non-fiction book, & B) I just spent over two weeks utterly consumed by writing the freaking introduction. 2,296 words in 15 days- that not a lot, but I want it to be RIGHT. Plus, I’m just stretching the old muscles, getting back in shape for the brutal long haul that lies ahead. The sustained creative heavy lifting required to write a book makes writing the lyrics for an album look like preschool finger painting. Plus, if what you’re doing is turning out shitty, you can’t just blame the rest of your band. (sorry dudes)
“Most books on writing of are bullshit, collections of pointless “exercises” from people who haven’t sold any other books of their own (I should know, I’ve bought most of them.) No book on earth is gonna turn you into a good writer. There is no magic pill. Just like playing music, shooting photos, or pursuing any other creative endeavor- the ONLY way to find out if you’re any good is to DO IT. You gotta write, & the hardest part of writing is sitting your ass down to do it, & then repeating that process day after day after day. There IS a book that can help you start to do that though- ‘The War of Art’ by @steven_pressfield. This book (& his other books) got me through writing my last book, & it will get me through this one, goddammit. As my friend the writer Brian Pulido said when he gave me a copy ‘It’s like a fireman’s hatchet when you’re stuck in a house burning down around you.’ I can’t even remember how many times I’ve already read this book. I’m reading it again now.
“If you want to try to be a writer (or pursue any sort of art) but you’re too intimidated to start, BUY THIS BOOK. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Read it. Do what it says. Then sit your ass down in the chair and write- you’ll find out eventually if you’re any good.
“Cheers to all the writers out there- I’m rooting for y’all!
– Randy Blythe