Neil Gaiman

Panda (left), Neil Gaiman

Last night I went to see Neil Gaiman on his Chicago stop of his book tour. The location, one town over, could not have been more convenient for me if his publishers consulted me beforehand. I've been looking forward to this event ever since his last book tour, about two years ago.

Gaiman is the author of the graphic novels (Sandman), fantasy novels (Stardust) and movies (Beowulf). He's maintained a devoted following through his blog (he's just like me in that respect). He is my second favorite author, which is entirely his own doing, because Gaiman first introduced me to (not personally, of course) Gene Wolfe, who is my first favorite author. Gaiman shared the stage with Wolfe at an event I went to about four years ago. I was intrigued by Wolfe's answers in the Q&A, and my interest was further piqued by Gaiman's obvious respect for him, so I started picking up his books. Here is a link to one of the interviews Gaiman did of Wolfe. (Gaiman started his career as a journalist, so even now I will see him do the odd interview of a famous person.)

Gaiman read a whole chapter from his new book, The Graveyard Book (which I now own and will soon be reviewing here), then we watched scenes from his new movie Coraline, then he did a Q&A. I'm always amazed at the stupid questions people ask, but really the questions are just an excuse to get Gaiman talking. He's an engaging speaker.

There was no book signing at this event (too many people), which I was glad about. I really don't get the whole deal with getting autographs. I don't need proof that I saw someone. And I certainly don't need to stand in line two hours to get that proof. If I go to see an author, I want to hear that author talk. I love the author for his creative skills, not signing-his-own-name skills.

A few highlights from his talk:

A story is what keeps me turning the pages and doesn't leave me feeling cheated at the end. -- He basically summed up my thoughts about how some stories are just for fun!

A good ending should feel inevitable. -- I agree. Whether it's a happy ending or a tragic ending, it's more satisfying if it flows the the rest of the story. I always remember watching the movie Vanity Fair and at the end thinking that the ending just didn't seem right. I picked up the book (wonderful, by the way) and found the ending completely different.

When writing, don't use big words when good solid words will do. -- This is one I will have to take to heart, as I tend to get a little verbose. OMG, does "verbose" count as a big word? I think it does. I meant to say, "I can get a little wordy."