Life's Work: A Memoir of Storytelling and Self-Destruction

David Milch, the acclaimed writer of Deadwood and NYPD Blue, has written a searing and brutally honest memoir, Life's Work. It explores how chance encounters, self-deception, and luck shape the people we become, and how we can continue living with pain we have caused.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2024
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

David Milch, the acclaimed writer behind the iconic TV series "Deadwood" and "NYPD Blue," has penned a captivating memoir titled "Life's Work." As he battles dementia, which offers no respite, this book offers a poignant reflection on his increasingly surreal present and the often-painful chapters of his past.

From a young age, Milch displayed a penchant for unconventional behavior. He engaged in gambling, alcohol theft, and even ventured into streetlight vandalism. His mentor was the renowned Robert Penn Warren, while his literary critic Richard Yates was less complimentary, condemning his youthful indiscretions. Milch approached life with an audacious intensity, never shying away from challenges. Despite his academic achievements, including admission to Yale Law School, his unconventional streak led to his expulsion for shooting out streetlights. He interrupted his studies at the Iowa Writers Workshop to manufacture acid, a decision that defied convention.

Milch's creative journey is a testament to his unwavering determination. He created some of the most celebrated television series of all time, including "Deadwood" and "NYPD Blue." He also started a family and embarked on a path toward sobriety, a journey that was inspired by his troubled relationship with his drug-addicted father. However, his pursuit of success was marred by a tragic twist when he lost his fortune betting on horses, a lesson he had learned from his father.

"Life's Work" delves into the intricate interplay of chance encounters, self-deception, and luck that shape our lives. Milch explores the profound impact of pain, both inflicted and experienced, on those we love and ourselves. He grapples with the question of how to continue living in the face of adversity and the consequences of our actions. This memoir offers a captivating masterclass on Milch's unique creative process, providing insight into his thought processes and the inspiration behind his iconic works.

In conclusion, "Life's Work" is a searing, brutally honest memoir that offers a profound exploration of the human condition. Through his vivid storytelling and introspective prose, David Milch invites readers into his world, sharing his struggles, triumphs, and the lessons he has learned along the way. This book is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the resilience of the human spirit.

Weight: 216g
Dimension: 133 x 197 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035005642