I spent a memorable afternoon with Superior, Wisconsin, short story writer Anthony Bukoski last summer. We discussed his book, The Thief of Words, which was published in 2025 by the University of Wisconsin Press. Tony’s stories feature white collar-blue collar tensions that belie his time spent in both worlds. The Thief of Words focuses on such themes as loneliness, longing, dislocation, assimilation, and generational conflict.
Thanks to the kickboxing workouts I’ve been doing for the past four years, our interview ends in a surprising way! You can read about it in Hypertext, a digital literary magazine published in Chicago.
I thank Tony for this opportunity and Hypertext for publishing it. If you’re looking for something to read, please check out Tony’s book.
Marie's Meanderings 
Interesting interview! And too bad, there wasn’t anyone around on the “patio” when the two of you were kickboxing. It would have supplied folks with a good tale to tell at supper!
Thank you, Diana. Yes, too bad. Since nobody was around, I knew I had to include our little sparring session in the story!
Loved the interview, Marie!
Thanks, Eiline! This is the first time I’ve written one of these, so it was a learning experience.
Great interview! I loved reading more about Tony and his stories, which I love.
Thank you! I was especially interested to hear about some of the personal connections/events that inspired his stories.
We had a blast, Marie. Your recollection of our throwing punches made the intervew. It was great to work with you.
The interview was fun, Tony! Thanks for almost hitting me? Ha ha.
Sounds interesting!