Nov 12, 2018
Matteson Perry discusses winning The Moth Grand Slam, his writing process and why it is ok to ask for things in this episode. Enjoy!
Show Notes:
8:41 - Matteson’s writing process in the early morning.
9:38 - The double rejection of MBA school and the girlfriend.
13:10 - The chocolate heart story.
15:07 - Valuable lessons learned during his year of being single.
20:05 - How writing an essay that was placed in the New York Times ended up being a big break.
22:08 - “The best thing about writing is that you don’t need anyone’s permission.”
25:23 - The emotions after winning The Moth Grand Slam.
28:38 - “You don’t tell people about your victories, you tell people about your failures.”
33:35 - Matteson’s favorite season of The Wire.
37:00 - How has Matteson been able to stay so disciplined with his writing.
39:00 - There is a difference between being nice and being kind.
39:44 - “It’s ok to ask for things … it doesn’t mean you have lost if you ask for something.”
How to reach Matteson: Website | Twitter
Book Recommendations:
“Exit West” by Mohsin Hamid
“The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen
“Why Buddism is True” by Robert Wright