AAI: A Chat With "Poet Laureate" of the CIA Ops Office Cadre, David McCloskey
Oct 23, 2024
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David McCloskey, an espionage author and former CIA analyst, shares insights into his latest novel, 'The Seventh Floor.' He humorously reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of writing and the personal journeys tied to crafting espionage narratives. The conversation dives into CIA antics, the tight-knit friendships formed in training, and the delicate balance of trust within the agency. McCloskey also opens up about navigating criticism and imposter syndrome while maintaining a passion for storytelling, all while lamenting his Cleveland Indians.
David McCloskey highlights the intricate balance of fear, joy, and self-loathing in the creative writing process, illustrating its emotional complexities.
The discussion on McCloskey's character Artemis Proctor underscores the intense loyalty and betrayal themes prevalent in CIA operations and storytelling.
Deep dives
The Importance of Staying Informed
As the election season approaches, there is a strong emphasis on the need for the public to stay informed about current events. The podcast highlights that the DSR network is an invaluable resource for the latest news and expert commentary on significant issues, particularly in the realm of security. It also encourages listeners to consider becoming members to gain access to exclusive content and a more comprehensive listening experience. This call to action underlines the importance of engaged citizenship in times of political change.
David McCloskey's Insights from the CIA
David McCloskey, a former CIA analyst, provides a unique perspective on international security challenges through his experiences at the agency. He discusses his background, which includes writing for the President's Daily Brief and working in various CIA field stations during critical events like the Arab Spring. His knowledge and firsthand accounts offer an enriching depth to the conversation about intelligence operations and the complexities of national security. McCloskey’s insights emphasize the importance of informed analysis and strategic thinking in understanding global threats.
The Art of Character Development in Espionage Fiction
McCloskey’s latest book, 'The Seventh Floor,' focuses on the character Artemis Proctor, a strong figure within a fictional unit of the CIA. The narrative revolves around a mole hunt, showcasing the tensions and emotional stakes in intelligence work. The character's development is significant as Proctor navigates betrayal, friendship, and the complexities of agency dynamics. McCloskey adeptly weaves personal anecdotes into the story, enriching the reader's understanding of life at the CIA while exploring profound themes of loyalty and deception.
The Challenges and Thrills of Writing
The podcast also delves into McCloskey's writing process, emphasizing the difficulties of constructing compelling narratives while maintaining authenticity. He shares that his approach typically begins with envisioning a climactic scene and then building the plot around it, often leading to multiple drafts and revisions. McCloskey describes writing as a daily struggle intertwined with fear, joy, and self-criticism, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of the creative process. His experiences resonate with many writers, illustrating the inherent vulnerability of sharing one's work with the world.
“Everyday is a three legged stool of fear, joy and self-loathing:” our favorite espionage author David McCloskey (Twitter: @mccloskeybooks) joins Marc to discuss his new book “The Seventh Floor” and the painful yet rewarding process of writing a best selling novel. Plus, CIA pranks, friendships forged in training, tradecraft that is (almost) real, and more on our favorite case officer, Artemis Proctor. And finally, woe to David’s Cleveland Indians.