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I never understood Crichton as a writer until I read his nonfiction book, TRAVELS. And suddenly, I got it. I was able to connect the dots between Crichton, the physician, inveterate traveler and seeker, to Crichton, the novelist and screenwriter. From Crichton, I learned that it's okay to break the rules.
Anne Rice? A completely unique and intensely passionate voice. Years ago at the Miami Book Fair, I heard her speak movingly about the events that led up to her writing INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE. She'd had a dream that her young daughter had a blood disease and shortly afterward, her daughter was diagnosed and subsequently died from leukemia. In the aftermath, perhaps as a road to her healing, Rice wrote "Vampire" in a fevered frenzy, in just three weeks. I can't imagine losing a child, can't imagine the depth of grief and rage that must have seized her. But her daughter's death became, through Rice's passion and creative drive, the springboard that has defined Rice's entire career.
Regardless of who you are - King, Rice, Crichton, or any writer with a story to tell- what makes you special is that you're a unique individual, with a unique perspective. The challenge is to translate and channel that uniqueness into your storytelling.
DC: Thanks Trish. That was an amazing interview. You've inspired me to go back to the keyboard and keep writing!
