The Writer Files: Writing, Productivity, Creativity, and Neuroscience How NY Times Bestselling Author Gregg Hurwitz Writes: Part One - Redux
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Jan 23, 2026 
In this engaging conversation, bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz shares insights into his journey as a writer, noting that all writing is a form of self-discovery. He explains his unique approach to humanizing the character Evan Smoak, a trained assassin in his acclaimed Orphan X series. Gregg also discusses the importance of maintaining distinct character traits and how he designs antagonists to challenge Evan's evolving humanity. With valuable advice on refining one's voice and writing process, this chat is a treasure trove for aspiring authors.
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Plot Is Character In Motion
- Gregg Hurwitz thinks of plot as "character in motion" and returns to character above all else.
- He designs series elements so the character remains distinctive across scenes and books.
Skipped Creative Writing Classes
- Gregg never took creative writing classes or read how-to books while studying English and psychology.
- He used college to gather diverse ideas he could later blend into fiction.
Psychology Shapes Narrative
- Gregg pairs English with psychology because psychological case studies read like contained narratives.
- He credits Freud and Jung for shaping narrative understanding and character depth.
