Thursday, January 01, 2015

Why sportsmen's autobiographies disappoint.


When Sachin Tendulkar released his autobiography recently, I knew that at least one person would not be buying or reading it.  Me.
While I’ve always considered him an intuitive batting genius, I’ve never heard him utter an intelligent remark about the game. So, even if it was going to be ghost-written, I was under no illusion at all that the book would offer any insight either on how he approached or planned his innings or any other nuances of the game.  
But, given his stature, there was tremendous anticipation before the release of the book. I am sure it sold well, even if the reviews were not too favourable.
Why are autobiographies of most geniuses invariably disappointing and why do we feel the need to read autographies of sportsmen, at all?
In his review of tennis-player Tracy Austin’s autobiography (“Beyond Centre Court”) David Foster Wallace writes (you can find a pdf version here.) :
Almost uniformly bad as books, these athletic “My story”s sell incredibly well; there are so many of them. And they sell so well because athletic stories seem to promise something more than the regular old name-dropping celebrity autobiography.
Here is a theory. Top athletes are compelling because they embody the comparison-based achievement we revere- fastest, strongest- and because they do so in a totally unambiguous way. Questions of the best plumber or best managerial accountant are impossible even to define, whereas the best relief pitcher, free-throw shooter or female tennis player is, at any given time, a matter of public statistical record. Top athletes fascinate us by appealing to our twin compulsions with competitive superiority and hard data.
Plus they’re beautiful. Great athletes are profundity in motion. They enable abstraction like power and grace and control to become not only incarnate but televisable. To be top athlete, performing, is to be that exquisite hybrid of animal and angel that we average unbeautiful watchers have such a hard time seeing in ourselves.
So, we want to know them. These gifted, driven physical achievers. We too, as audience, are driven: watching the performance is not enough. We want to go intimate with all that profundity. We want inside them; we want the Story. We want to hear about humble roots, privation, precocity, grim resolve, discouragement, persistence, team spirit, sacrifice, killer instinct, liniment and pain. We want to know how they did it. What goes through their minds? Is their Agony of Defeat anything like our little agonies of daily frustration?
So ,the point then about these sports memoirs’ market appeal: Because top athletes are profound, because they make a certain type of genius as carnally discernible as it can ever get, these ghost-written invitations inside their lives and their skulls are terribly seductive for book buyers. Explicitly or not, the memoirs make a promise- to let us penetrate the indefinable mystery of what makes some persons geniuses, semi divine, to share with us the secret and so both to reveal the difference between us and them and to erase it, a little, that difference …to give us what we want, expect, only one, the master narrative, the key) Story.
However seductively they promise, though, these autobiographies never deliver. And “Beyond Centre Court” is especially bad. The book fails not because it’s poorly written, but because what any college sophomore knows is the capital crime of expository prose; it forgets who it’s supposed to be for…. None of the book’s loyalties are to the reader. The author’s primary allegiance seems to be her family and friends.
DFW then talks about the air of robotic banality that suffuses the sports-memoirs genre and how the books turn out to be disappointing and stunningly inarticulate about just those qualities and experiences that fascinate the readers.
It remains very hard for me to reconcile the vapidity of Austin’s narrative mind, on the one hand, with the extraordinary mental powers that are required for world-class tennis, on the other.
Real indisputable genius is so impossible to define that maybe we automatically expect people who are geniuses as athletes to be also geniuses as speakers and writers, to be articulate, perceptive, truthful, profound.
The real secret behind top athletes’ genius, then, may be as esoteric and obvious and dull and profound as silence itself. The real, many-veiled answer to the question of what just goes through a great player’s mind as he stands at the centre of hostile crowd-noise and lines up the free-throw that will decide the game might be : nothing at all .
It may well be that we spectators who are not divinely gifted as athletes, are the ones truly able to see, articulate and animate the experience of the gift that we are denied. And those who receive and act out the gift of athletic genius must, perforce, be blind and dumb about it- and not because blindness and dumbness are the price of the gift, but because they are its essence.
I felt that this, to a large extent, explains why Sachin – undoubted genius, though he is, when batting- was unable to offer any insights in his autobiography ( As I admitted, I haven’t read it. I’m going by some of the reviews I came across).  Unfortunately for him, his ghost writer too lacked an understanding of what to provide to the readers.

49 comments:

Amardeep Singh Chauhan said...

Thanks for the news about Chennai.

Unknown said...

Informative and really likable post. thanks for sharing. Gold Detector Dubai|Detech metal Detectors|Long range Metal Detectors

Unknown said...

Thanks for communicate such a master tips about web developer,web development.
your blog is completely very useful for us
Thanks for communicate such a master tips about web developer,web development.
your blog is completely very useful for us

Unknown said...

Fine.. Its worth more for unknown persons... Thanks......................We offer superior network security solutions in Bangalore to assist service suppliers, enterprises and the public sector produce price accelerate success.


Network security solutions in Bangalore

Studio Vaibhava said...

good representation
wedding photography in chennai
candid wedding photography chennai
wedding photographers in chennai

Anonymous said...

Have you read the book Open by Andre Agassi? Pretty good for a sports celebrity.

Gruhakhoj.com said...

chennai is one of the most desirable locations in the world . very interesting and attractive blog and post.. i likes it.. see Gruhkhoj Property Portal

Anonymous said...

Dear sir

Please check out the following online earning portal - THERE IS A HUGE EARNING POTENTIAL BY CLICKING ADVERTISEMENTS.


http://www.clixsense.com/?7719827

Please sign up and click ads daily

Thanks and regards
gnikb2000

Studio Vaibhava said...

great way of narrating candid photography chennai

Studio Vaibhava said...

great work author, studiovaibhava a leading Wedding photographers in Bangalore. We capture your wedding moments and make it to be a life moment. Best wedding photographers in Bangalore. Explore into Wedding photography Bangalore

Unknown said...

Nice article..

Online Travel Portal
Online Bus Ticket booking
Low Cost Air Tickets Online Booking
Online Hotel Reservations
Holiday Packages India
mobile Bus Ticketing
Online bus Ticket Booking API

Unknown said...

thanks for sharing your information

Smurugappan is a well reputed firm in Foreign Trade Policy Chennai. Defining for Export Import Policy which is also known as Foreign Trade Policy issued by DGFT India.

Income Tax Calculator Chennai

Anonymous said...

To get latest Breaking News in Chennai visit here Maalaimalar

Signboards Chennai said...

Nice one, Yes, Sportsmen has faced many hurdles in their career path and their Life history is the beacon of Hardwork.

flats in mugalivakkam said...

Thank you for sharing useful information
flats in manapakkam

Unknown said...

Thanks for the information... I really love your blog posts... specially those onVillas in Sholinganallur
,Villa in Vandalur

Unknown said...

Hi,

Thanks for sharing this information. I just had a good information from this blog...

Flats in Chennai

Gr Constructions said...

Great post. This article is really very interesting and enjoyable. I think its must be helpful and informative for us. Thanks for sharing your nice post. Web Technology Company in Chennai

Masterpieces said...

Interesting one.. keep up the good work
Signage Advertising Chennai

chennai ungal kaiyil said...

NICE ARTICLE


Travel Reservations in Chennai



chennai ungal kaiyil said...

nice article
Chennai City News

Madhuridesai said...


Night Hangouts With Independent Bangalore Escorts

Bangalore escorts
Independent Bangalore escorts
Bangalore in Escorts

Cownsingh said...


Fantastic Escorts Services in Bangalore All 5 Star Hotels
Bangalore escorts
Independent Bangalore escorts
Bangalore in Escorts

Unknown said...

I really like your blog, the information you’ve provided on the website is just accurate.
E waste recyclers in hyderabad, India

Unknown said...


Great stuff,thanks for sharing,very informative and presented well,keep updating more

Web Hosting Services in Bhubaneswar
Web Hosting in Bhubaneswar

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing your info. I really appreciate your efforts and I will be waiting for your further write ups thanks once again.


Preschool in chennai
Play School in chennai
kindergarten schools in chennai

Edenmatrimony said...

Well to be honest the articles and the blogs are really appreciative.

Matrimony in Chennai

shreemetals said...

Copper Dealers in Sowcarpet

srinivasulu said...


Thanks for the wonderful tip! Very detailed and informative. Easy enough for a beginner like me to understand.
Best SEO Services in Chennai

Charu said...

Hitech Vision is one amongst the reputed and oldest Signboard Manufacturers in Chennai. With over a quarter century of experience in Signboard industry. Hitech Vision offers its customer the best value for money. Signage plays a crucial role in promotions and advertising today.

Unknown said...

Skiwee’s services are available right at your fingertips. All you have to do is log on to our website or app, select the type of service you require, enter your location, choose the date and time, and we will do the rest!
Plumbing services in Chennai
Plumbers in Chennai
Electrician in Chennai
Electrical services in Chennai
Carpentry works in Chennai
Carpentry works in Chennai
Ac repair in Chennai
Ac services in Chennai
Home cleaning services in Chennai
Bathroom cleaning services in Chennai

Unknown said...

Hey, nice site you have here! Keep up the excellent work!

Epub3 Services
Offshore Graphic Designing

Unknown said...

Dental Clinic in Tambaram
Dental Clinic in Guduvanchery

Unknown said...

Great blog. You have to shared wonderful tips. thanks for your sharing.
Sign Board in Chennai
Led Display Board Dealers in Chennai

Unknown said...

Useful post..
Modular kitchen in chennai
Modular kitchen chennai

Unknown said...

I am hunger of really like and sex so I provide this Hyderabad Escorts Services
Hyderabad Escorts Services

Abhishek said...

Because the comes between him and the success..so never take your success to your brain and never take failure to ur heart...keep growing...

Liquid acrylic led signage
Liquid acrylic led letters in Chennai

vinish said...

The blog was very informative and has lot of information. Keep sharing more in your future blog post.
Sign Board Manufacturers in Chennai
Sign Boards Chennai
Signage Chennai
Metal Letters Chennai
LED Sign Boards in Chennai
Name Board Makers in Chennai

karthick said...

The blog was really interesting with lot of good information.
Interior Designers in Chennai
Interior Decorators in Chennai
Best Interior Designers in Chennai
Home Interior designers in Chennai
Modular Kitchen in Chennai

Best wedding photographer in Bhubaneswar said...

Wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar
Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar
Pre-wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar
Candid wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar
Best Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar
Top Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar
Wedding videography in Bhubaneswar
Wedding photography Bhubaneswar
Best Photographer in Bhubaneswar
Wedding Photography in India
Wedding Photographer in India
Pre-wedding Photography in India
Candid wedding Photography in India
Best Wedding Photographer in India
Top Wedding Photographer in India
Wedding videography in India
Wedding photography India
Best Photographer in India

Wedding Photography Bhubaneswar said...

SNAP CITY is one of the most renowned wedding photography service provider in Bhubaneswar, India. We specialize in candid wedding photography & cinematic wedding films. We provide optimal quality photography & videography services to our valuable clients throughout the country. Engagement Photo-shoot, Ring Ceremony Photo-shoot, Wedding Photo-shoot, Traditional Wedding Photography, Candid Wedding Photography, Wedding Videography, Wedding Cinematography, Cinematic Wedding, Pre-wedding Photography, Pre-wedding Video, Video Shooting, Cinematic Video, Photo Editing, Video Editing, Album Designing, Photo-book, Photo album, Photo Album Printing, Post-wedding Photo-shoot, Anniversary Photo-shoot, Maternity Photography, Baby Photo-shoot, Kids Photography, Birthday Photo-shoot, Party Photo-shoot, Event Photography, Commercial Photography, Fashion Photo-shoot, Model Photo-shoot, Portfolio Shoot, Matrimonial Photography, Portrait Photo-shoot, Product Photography, Commercial Video, Ad film, Video Production, Commercial Video, Corporate Event Photography, Short film, Video Shooting, Video production, Photography Service, Videography Service, Photo and Video, Wedding Planner, Event Organizer, Party Planner, Event Management Company, Wedding Service, Wedding Vendor

Best Wedding Photographerin Bhubaneswar said...


SNAP CITY is one of the most renowned wedding photography service provider in Bhubaneswar, India. We specialize in candid wedding photography & cinematic wedding films. We provide optimal quality photography & videography services to our valuable clients throughout the country. Wedding Photography Bhubaneswar, Best Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar, Pre-wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar, Candid Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar, Top Wedding Photographers in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Photographer Bhubaneswar, Wedding Photographer in Bhubaneswar Bhubaneswar Odisha, Best Wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar, Best Wedding Photographer in BBSR, Candid Wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar Price, Wedding Photography Packages in Bhubaneswar, Pre-wedding Photography in Bhubaneswar, Best Wedding Photographers in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Photographers in Bhubaneswar, Maternity Photography Bhubaneswar

SixthSenseStudio said...

Great tips, Many thanks for sharing Nice photos...
Destination Wedding Photographer in Bangalore| Post Wedding Photography in Bangalore | Maternity Photographer in Bangalore| Kids Photographer in Bangalore | Candid Wedding films in bangalore

Wedding planner in bhubaneswar said...

This is exceptionally overall quite alluring Post....
wedding planner in Bhubaneswar Odisha | wedding planner in Bhubaneswar with price | wedding planner cost in Bhubaneswar | wedding planner at Bhubaneswar | wedding decorators in Bhubaneswar | best wedding decorators in Bhubaneswar | wedding car decoration in Bhubaneswar | Bhubaneswar wedding venues | Bhubaneswar wedding |
wedding planner in Bhubaneswar Odisha, wedding planner in Bhubaneswar with price, wedding planner cost in Bhubaneswar, wedding planner at Bhubaneswar, wedding decorators in Bhubaneswar, best wedding decorators in Bhubaneswar, wedding car decoration in Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar wedding venues, Bhubaneswar wedding planner, wedding agencies Bhubaneswar, wedding planner at Bhubaneswar, wedding car decoration Bhubaneswar, wedding flower decoration Bhubaneswar, wedding planner in Bhubaneswar, wedding planning in Bhubaneswar, wedding venues in Bhubaneswar, wedding venues in Bhubaneswar with price, wedding decorators in Bhubaneswar, wedding planner Bhubaneswar,, event management company Bhubaneswar, , best event management Bhubaneswar Odisha,, wedding event management in Bhubaneswar,, event management in Bhubaneswar, , event management companies in Bhubaneswar,, event organisers in Bhubaneswar,, best wedding planner in Bhubaneswar Odisha,

Wedding planner in bhubaneswar said...

This is exceptionally overall quite alluring Post.... Keeping up to Post such sort of things.....

Event | Event Management | Wedding Planner in Bhubaneswar | Event Management Companies in India | Event Management Companies India | Event Management in Bhubaneswar | Event Organisers in Bhubaneswar | Event organizer | Event organizer in Bhubaneswar | Event organizers | event organizers in Bhubaneswar | Event Planner | Event Planners | Event planners in Bhubaneswar | Wedding | Wedding Planner | Wedding planners |Wedding Planners in Bhubaneshwar |Wedding Planners in Bhubaneswar | Wedding Venues | Wedding Venues in BhubaneswarWedding Planner in Bhubaneswar With Price, Wedding Planner Cst in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Planner At Bhubaneswar, Wedding Decratrs in Bhubaneswar, Best Wedding Decratrs in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Car Decratin in Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar Wedding Venues, Bhubaneswar Wedding Planner, Wedding Agencies Bhubaneswar, Wedding Planner At Bhubaneswar, Wedding Car Decratin Bhubaneswar, Wedding Flwer Decratin Bhubaneswar, Wedding Planner in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Phtgraphy in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Venues in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Venues in Bhubaneswar With Price, Wedding Decratrs in Bhubaneswar, Wedding Planner in Bhubaneswar disha, Wedding Planner Bhubaneswar, Event Management Cmpany Bhubaneswar, Best Event Management Bhubaneswar disha, Wedding Event Management in Bhubaneswar, Event Management in Bhubaneswar, Event Management Cmpanies in Bhubaneswar, Event rganisers in Bhubaneswar

dhanu said...

The blogs are really appreciable and one can trust the knowledge and information provided in the writing.Sign Board Manufacturers in Chennai
Sign boards chennai
Metal Letters Chennai

BSc 2nd Year Time Table said...

These are genuinely fantastic ideas about blogging really. You have touched some very nice points here. Please keep up this good writing.

Pavithra said...

Thanks for the useful info. e waste recycling chennai

Irich photography said...

Very useful blog