speccynerd

Some writers questions -

How do you physically write? Do you have a word count target? Do you listen to anything? How long do you take per day, and how many days a week? How many drafts do you do? How do you edit?

Hi Irvine - massive fan here. Have loved you since reading Trainspotting back in 94. I once read an interview with you online, I think it was with Kevin Williamson and you were both pilled off your nut, talking about Billy The Fish playing in goal while on one, and you said how free you felt to write anything you liked. Do you remember this interview, and if so, do you know what happened to it? It was hilarious.

Did you read the profile of you by Andrew O'Hagan, and if so what did you think of it? Also, what were the reasons (as you see them) for his biography of you breaking down?

Asking the real question!

Story - you were in Aberdeen doing a reading from Porno. You were doing it at the nightclub I worked in (Lava, formerly Glow 303), and it was busy and we were all waiting for you. I went to the upstairs bar to get a pint and grumbled to the barstaff, "Where the fuck is he?! Everyone's waiting downstairs!!" They went white and mumbled, "He's right beside you..." But you were a gent and pretended not to hear, and very kindly signed copies of my books. Then you did an excellent reading - you get the accents and characterisations down to a tee. So thanks!

So I guess my question is, why have your later books been more plot-driven while your earlier ones seemed more about character? Are you conscious of this or has it just come naturally?