R.J. Heller

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."

More Answered Questions

Ev asked Erik Larson:

Hi Erik, I am a new fan. As much as I love history and non-fiction, it surprises me that I didn't discover your books before now. Do you ever write fiction based on real events? Also, do you outline before rough draft? Thank you!

Ken Hohman

Ken Hohman asked Erik Larson:

You're a remarkable writer. I have a deep apprec. for your research. The detail on Ferris and Olmstead (fascinating) in DITWC set a new standard. With T-struck, tho, I'm wondering how you obtained some of the minute details. Ex: "Ethel found that walking the deck with Crippen became less and less pleasant." Surely, she didn't express that in writing, right? Run into the same challenge in my writing, so curious.

John

John asked Erik Larson:

I've read Devil, Beasts and Isaac's and really enjoyed and recommend all the time. I forgot about Thunderstruck and will add to list along with Lusitania. How do you come up with your topics? They seem pretty diverse. Do you stumble across a news item or other writing and decide to dig in further? A history buff? And how long is your current list of books to write? Keep them coming, please.

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