Going to the Tigers: Essays and Exhortations - Writerly Guidance

In this review of Going to the Tigers: Essays and Exhortations, Robert Cohen offers a compact, candid guide for readers who want to understand how a novelist thinks about craft. The book is best for curious writers and literary readers who appreciate a mix of anecdote, criticism, and practical instruction. Cohen does not present abstract rules; instead he demonstrates techniques through example and allusion, showing how influences from Roth, Ellison, Kafka, and Robinson can be used creatively. The result is a readable collection that teaches by demonstration more than prescription.

Key Features

• Personal essays: Cohen uses autobiographical scenes to illustrate writing decisions, making technical points feel lived-in and concrete.
• Practical demonstrations: Rather than only advising, the book shows how to rant, name characters, and shape style through example, useful for writers who learn by reading craft in action.
• Allusive criticism: The essays trace influences from major writers, helping readers see how intertextual reference can be employed responsibly.
• Wide-ranging topics: Subjects include character naming, managing the writer identity, and use of reference, so readers gain a multi-faceted look at the writing life.
• Balanced tone: A blend of wit and seriousness makes technical discussion approachable for both seasoned and emerging writers.

Who It's For

The collection is aimed at fiction writers and essayists who want to learn craft through example and literary reflection; it suits readers who prefer thoughtful, example-driven discussion over rigid rules. It also fits literary readers interested in a practitioner27s perspective on major influences and stylistic choices.

Those seeking a step-by-step how-to manual or a textbook-like treatment of writing fundamentals should look elsewhere, because Cohen prioritizes demonstration and personal reflection rather than exhaustive pedagogy.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Readable essays that combine memoir and craft insight, making abstract ideas concrete.
• Clear examples of technique, useful for writers who learn by imitation and close reading.
• Engaging allusions to Roth, Ellison, Kafka, and Robinson that model thoughtful influence.
• Witty, perceptive voice that keeps technical discussion lively and human.

Cons

• Not a systematic textbook, so readers wanting exhaustive exercises or step-by-step curricula may find it lacking.

Specifications

Title	Going to the Tigers: Essays and Exhortations
Author	Robert Cohen
Format	Collection of essays
Focus	Writing process, style, and influence
Notable subjects	Naming characters; managing writer identity; reference and allusion
Literary influences discussed	Roth, Ellison, Kafka, Robinson

Our Verdict

Going to the Tigers is a valuable pick for writers and literary readers who want instructive, example-rich essays rather than prescriptive lessons. Cohen27s blend of anecdote, criticism, and demonstration makes this collection good value for anyone seeking insight into how influences are woven into craft and how style develops through practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book teach practical writing techniques?
Yes; it teaches primarily by example, showing techniques such as ranting effectively and naming characters through illustrative essays rather than exercises.

Is prior knowledge of the referenced authors required?
No; familiarity with Roth, Ellison, Kafka, or Robinson deepens appreciation, but Cohen27s essays stand on their own as craft discussions.

Who will not enjoy this book?
Readers seeking a systematic, classroom-style manual with step-by-step drills may prefer a different, more structured how-to guide.