Martin Friel

I was born in Glasgow in 1978 and have lived there all my life apart from a three year stay in Canada. I graduated from Uni in 1999 but have spent the intervening years working in the bar trade; running a nightclub, and working in bars and restaurants. Basically anything that did not require too much thought and time. I moved to London five months ago and again find myself in the sordid world of bar work.

My main writing influence is Charles Bukowski. I found a book of his about 8 or 9 years ago and immediately took to his straightforward style and brutal honesty. Also, he makes me piss myself laughing and the most innapropriate moments. From there I moved on to the works of John Fante, Celine, Nelson Algren, Knut Hamsun and Camus. I like the way these guys write; with no shame and not scared to concentrate on the lives of ordinary people. I find the lives of the great and good to be quite stale.

Works featured on The Beat:

Amsterdam Bob

Posted: Monday, November 15th, 2004 - Filed in Writing, Short Story | No Comments »

A Moment Of Clarity

Posted: Monday, November 15th, 2004 - Filed in Writing, Short Story | No Comments »

House Guest

Posted: Saturday, July 17th, 2004 - Filed in Writing, Short Story | No Comments »

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