A Living American Treasure
Jim Harrison's memoir, Off to the Side, is just as gritty, scrutinizing, and lush as his novels and novellas. Harrison's life of the mind makes excellent reading, and he doesn't seem to make any excuses for his failures or take too much credit for his successes.Harrison's work in Hollywood gave him access and interesting insight into show business during the eighties and nineties. His reflection on those times and his utter distaste for his life then is filled with witty observations and candid appraisals.His writing has always been filled an intoxicating blend of wine, food, sex, and natural history. Harrison's descriptions of his life and his process will be valuable and heartening to any aspiring writers. But more importantly, he reflection on a life lived with gusto and exuberance will be inspiring to any anybody who wants to live a life that is passionate and full of wonder.