
The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience
How #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Robert Crais Writes: Part One - Redux
Jan 22, 2025
Join Robert Crais, the #1 New York Times bestselling author behind the iconic Elvis Cole and Joe Pike detective series. He discusses his fascinating journey from Emmy-nominated TV writer to crime fiction maestro, drawing inspiration from legends like Raymond Chandler. Crais shares how Los Angeles shapes his storytelling, turning the city into a character of its own. He also delves into his creative process, the evolution of his characters, and the excitement surrounding his latest novel, 'Racing the Light.' A masterclass in writing awaits!
31:26
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Quick takeaways
- Robert Crais transitioned from a TV writer to a novelist, driven by a desire to create stories from his unique vision.
- Los Angeles significantly influences Crais's storytelling, serving as a vibrant backdrop that enriches his characters and narratives.
Deep dives
The Journey from TV Writer to Novelist
Robert Crais discusses his evolution from a television writer to a celebrated novelist, revealing that he started his journey by writing short stories in Louisiana. After selling a few stories, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in television, believing it would provide a stable income. Over time, the collaborative nature of TV writing began to exhaust him, prompting a desire to create stories solely from his vision. This led him to write his first novel, The Monkey's Raincoat, and ultimately to the creation of his iconic characters, Elvis Cole and Joe Pike.
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