R.J. Heller asked Erik Larson:

I am new to your writing, but must say I am moving rather quickly through your latest, Dead Wake. Enjoying it so much, I have now bought your previous two books. The detail you provide, and the fluidity with which you then lay down the information is very comfortable, as a reader. Where do you find your subject or topic to write about? Do you seek a time period first or a specific incident in history?...RJ Heller

Erik Larson Well, welcome. And thanks for your kind remarks. As to where I find ideas: I have no idea! Each book arose from a wholly different set of circumstances, and came to me mostly by accident. I wish there were an idea tree somewhere, so that I could just grab one when needed, but, alas, finding an idea that works is a difficult process for me. An idea has to work on many different levels, and must sustain my interest for four or five years. My friend and publicist, Penny Simon, coined a phrase to describe my the period when I'm searching for the next book subject. She says it's when I'm in the "dark country of no ideas."

flag