The Weekend Habits of Acclaimed Author Colm Tóibín
Renowned Irish author Colm Tóibín, 69, has made a name for himself with his captivating novels, including the bestselling Brooklyn and his latest book, Long Island. With a career spanning over two decades, Tóibín has established himself as a literary giant, having been shortlisted for the prestigious Booker Prize for his 1999 novel, The Blackwater Lightship. As reported by The Australian Financial Review, Tóibín splits his time between the United States and Ireland, and has shared with the publication how he spends a typical weekend when he’s home in Los Angeles.
According to The Australian Financial Review, Tóibín’s weekend begins on a quiet note, with the author preferring to stay in rather than venture out into the city. As he puts it, "Because of the way LA is configured, you can’t really go flâneuring around. You can’t just decide to go for a coffee. It’s a big deal. So the great thing is you stay home." This approach allows Tóibín to maintain a sense of normalcy, despite being based in a city that doesn’t always lend itself to aimless wandering.
On a typical Saturday morning, Tóibín’s day begins with the arrival of several prominent newspapers at his doorstep. As The Australian Financial Review reports, "On Saturday morning, The New York Times, the LA Times and the Financial Times are literally at the door from about 6am, so you can’t feel completely isolated from the normal world." This influx of news and current events provides Tóibín with a sense of connection to the wider world, even as he spends the day at home.
Tóibín’s decision to stay in on weekends is also influenced by his love of reading and writing. With a vast library at his disposal, he can easily get lost in a good book or work on his latest project. As The Australian Financial Review notes, Tóibín’s approach to his weekends is somewhat reflective of his approach to life as a writer. In an interview with the publication, Tóibín likens playing tennis with a friend to reading one of his own books, suggesting that both activities offer a unique sense of pleasure and engagement.
The author’s preference for a quiet weekend at home also allows him to recharge and refocus, preparing him for the demands of his writing schedule. As The Australian Financial Review reports, Tóibín has a rigorous writing routine, and his weekends play an important role in helping him maintain a sense of balance and productivity.
In addition to his writing, Tóibín is also known for his passion for tennis. As The Australian Financial Review notes, he enjoys playing the sport with friends, and finds that it provides a welcome respite from his literary pursuits. This enthusiasm for tennis is reflective of Tóibín’s broader approach to life, which values simplicity, routine, and a deep appreciation for the world around him.
As a writer, Colm Tóibín is renowned for his nuanced and thought-provoking novels, which have captivated readers around the world. As The Australian Financial Review reports, his approach to life and writing is characterised by a deep sense of introspection and a commitment to his craft. As he navigates the demands of his writing schedule, Tóibín’s weekend habits offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of this acclaimed author.
