Speaking of readers' perspectives, she adds, "House is an incredibly complex series, and there is little wasted either in the dialogue, the music, the sets — even the wardrobe. Everything says something. Writing a column or an episode review is much easier in that everyone knows it's simply my opinion. ... But with a book, I felt I needed to hear all the voices: those that spoke to me and those that spoke to fans who see things I may not. I spent a lot of time agonizing over whether I was missing the point sometimes, or over-analyzing at others. Because it's a work of criticism - analysis - it's still my subjective perspective, but I've always tried to keep others' in mind."
Barbara notes that the easiest part of the writing process was working from a detailed outline as it allowed her to work on one part of the manuscript or another without having to maintain a linear workflow. She goes on to say, "The absolutely most fun chapter to write was House's. I cast him as a Byronic hero, using the attributes of that literary archetype and running the character through that lens. It's amazing how well he fits that archetype. It's a huge chapter, of necessity. At one point, I thought I was running so far over my word limit, I thought about severely cutting it back. My agent talked me out of it. She was right. This chapter is really the heart of the book, as it should be. Everything on the show revolves around House's orbit!"
The biggest surprise about the process? Being able to finish the book on time! She notes, "The process has been thus far a joy. I have a supportive and energetic advocate and friend in my agent; a great publisher who has involved me in selecting the cover shot and planning the book's cover design (and I've heard horror stories from other authors about this issue much to the contrary with their publishers)."
Now that the book is finished, what's next on Barbara's schedule? "Continue writing for BC — and hopefully another book. Probably not a TV book (although you never know). I have three or four ideas rattling around — and then there's those two unfinished novels, of course!"
Because Barbara has realized the dream that so many of us aspire to, I had to finish up by asking her if she had any advice for writers wondering how to get to the next level. She responded, "Keep at it and always keep your eyes open to possibilities, no matter how remote. Don't be afraid to let others know what you're doing. The thing I have been most asked by agents, publishers, etc. is whether I had a platform, a built-in readership of those who know and enjoy my writing. There's really only one way to get that. Don't be afraid to approach producers, actors, writers, etc (if you're into writing about film or TV). Email is my best friend. I would never have the courage to call someone up and ask for an interview. But emailing is another story entirely. I'm a fearless emailer. Much safer territory for my easily bruised artiste ego."
Article comments
1 - Josh Hathaway
Congratulations, Barbara. This really is an amazing journey and an inspiring one. You've worked hard to move your way through and I wish you nothing but the greatest of successes with it.
2 - barbara barmett
Thanks Lisa for this wonderful piece. This adventure (for it truly is an adventure) would not even be possible without the nurturing home and support Blogcritics has given me these past couple of years.
Josh--thanks so much!
3 - tigerfeet
Thanks for this! It was great to read some more about your background and journey Barbara. And I can safely say, even before I read Chasing Zebras, that I sincerely hope that your future plans include a book covering the remaining House seasons as well.
Best of luck to you!
4 - Jacquelyn
Great interview, and it was wonderful reading about Barbara's own long and varied journey that has led her to this point. I look forward to her reviews every week almost as much as I look forward to House itself, and I also look forward to the book. Congratulations!
5 - andree
Barbara, I read the entire article about you and was thrilled how things have turned out. Can't wait to read "Chasing Zebras." Keep up the great work.
6 - Orange450
Ha! What fun to see the roles reversed :) A great interview of a great subject. Barbara, you give every bit as good an interview as you get, and that's saying something, indeed!
Kudos on your momentous accomplishment. Enjoy all the well-deserved fame, recognition and respect that's coming your way as a result of it.
7 - Donna
Lisa,
I want to thank you for this enjoyable and fascinating article about Barbara. Her House blog is always the 'must-read' perfect compliment to each episode, never failing to enrich my viewing experience.
My copy of Chasing Zebras has been long-ordered and can't wait to read it. Congratulations Barbara!
8 - Lisa McKay
I'm glad you're all enjoying the piece, and thanks for the kind words. This was really fun to put together (and really, I think Barbara did all the hard work by answering the questions!) and we at BC are just so pleased at her success.
Barbara's a great example of how passion, hard work, and tenacity can sometimes come together in a perfect storm of opportunity.
9 - sdemar
Bravo, Barbara. I remember when I first started reading your posts over at a site that no longer exists. Look at how far you have come. Your success has been every bit earned by your hard work and dedication to a show that we all love so much. Congrats. I pre-ordered your book sometime ago and can't wait to read it from cover to cover.
10 - barbara barnett
I am blushing and beaming all at the same time (no smilies on BC to show it). This endeavor has been surreal for most of the last nearly two years, and only in the last week or so has begun to feel even a little bit like a reality. Writing has been one of most constant things in my life ever since I can remember and it always creeps into every job I've ever had no matter how far afield I venture. That I can produce a book about my favorite television show is something that my wildest dreams could not have foretold. Thank you to all for your lovely comments and well wishes.
11 - Sera G
Thank you, Lisa!
Barbara's blog is a heavenly place for the House obsessed. She is a wonderful writer with keen insights into the show and characters. She also makes it a welcoming place for fans to share their ideas.
Can't wait for September; Season 7 and this great book.
Kudos, Barbara!
12 - DebbieJ
Kudos to you Barbara! I can't wait to read your book! Great article, Lisa. You had a wonderful subject :)
13 - simona
Thanks for interviewing my favorite House's blogger :-)
And congrats to Barbara. I can imagine that the publication of this book, that I'm sure you wrote with all the passion that usually you dedicate to [H]ouse, is a dream come true. I hope that it will be printed soon also here in Italy because I can't wait.
Good luck!
14 - George Rann
Woo Hoo. What a phenomenal season finale. Gorgeous. Heartbreaking. And what an ending! Questions for the writers of tonight's episode? I'll be interviewing them tomorrow afternoon, so feel free to post your questions here.
15 - Mary K. Williams
Good stuff from both Lisa and Barbara - I'm real happy for your latest ventures Barbara