The LRB Podcast How to Write Like Elmore Leonard
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Sep 24, 2025 
J. Robert Lennon, a novelist and Cornell creative-writing professor, dives into the genius of Elmore Leonard, renowned for his minimalist, dialogue-rich prose. They explore Leonard's ten rules for writing, particularly the power of using 'said' as a dialogue tag. Lennon argues that these rules, while valuable, should serve as tools rather than rigid guidelines. The discussion also highlights how Leonard's craftsmanship evolves, the interplay of crime and romance in his works, and comparisons with classic authors like Chandler and Hammett.
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Minimalism Through Dialogue
- Elmore Leonard achieved a lot with a minimalist, dialogue-heavy style that trusts the reader.
- He conveys character and story with few chosen details and sharp ear for speech.
Rules Tailored To An Aesthetic
- Leonard's 'ten rules' suit his particular aesthetic but aren't universal commandments.
- They work as tools for a specific minimalist, dialogue-led approach rather than general rules.
Use 'Said' And Trust The Reader
- Prefer the tag 'said' and avoid flashy dialogue verbs that call attention to the writer.
- Convey tone through word choice and let readers infer subtext for a stronger effect.
