How to Get Started

I’m so tired of reading about “young upstarts” fighting the Hollywood system (“Back Behind the Bar,” by Patrick Goldstein, April 13).

Here’s a couple of ideas for Troy Duffy: First, try AA or at least stop drinking for a while, since I’ll bet almost all the supposed fights and problems you’ve had were alcohol-related. Second, take some writing and directing classes so when you go to those meetings, or meet with actors, you know a little bit about what you’re talking about. That helps in getting people interested in your script. Third, lose that tough-guy attitude. Coming across like an alcoholic blowhard will keep you behind the bar longer than not.

JAMES COLLINS

Los Angeles