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

Rae Colley

Rae Colley asked Erik Larson:

Like you appear to be, I am fascinated by oceans and their possibilities. I went through a huge Titanic fixation many years ago. Why do you think the Lusitania has never provoked a similar level of international obsession?

Kylie (LitwithKylieJo)

Kylie (LitwithKylieJo) asked Erik Larson:

Hi Erik, I've recently become a fan of your work after reading The Devil in the White City and I'm completely fascinated with narrative nonfiction. I wonder, what is your process when finding and researching a topic? How do you know when you have a winning story, one that will have enough information to carry you through an entire book? Thank you. I am anxiously awaiting your new book! Kylie Sebert

Glynn

Glynn asked Erik Larson:

I just finished Thunderstruck which I completely enjoyed. I noticed when reading it that you referred to the Lusitania a few times (in the story and also in the notes) and was wondering if you used some of your research for Thunderstruck in the writing of your new book or do you just start over researching for a book? Thanks!

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