I realize now I could have gotten a whole book out of that and so I think that was a big mistake. But the truth is you write in the moment and with your head down and there is no way back then that I could have conceived of Harry having the longevity that he has had.
Meaning of the quote
Michael Connelly, the American author, is saying that when he was writing a story, he didn't realize how much he could have expanded it into a full book. He was so focused on the moment and just writing without looking ahead, that he couldn't have predicted how popular and long-lasting his character Harry would become. Connelly feels that was a mistake, as he could have made the story much longer and more detailed if he had known how successful it would be.
About Michael Connelly
Michael Connelly is an American author known for his bestselling detective novels, including the Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch and Mickey Haller series. He has won numerous awards, including the Edgar Award, and his books have been adapted into successful movies.
More quotes from Michael Connelly
I think I would spend the first 30 weeks not writing, just clearing my head and seeing parts of the world I haven’t seen and going back to places I have seen and love.
American novelist
I realize now I could have gotten a whole book out of that and so I think that was a big mistake. But the truth is you write in the moment and with your head down and there is no way back then that I could have conceived of Harry having the longevity that he has had.
American novelist
In a daydream sort of way, I think it would be pretty cool to direct a movie. But I have been on movie and TV sets and know it is hard work. I like directing it in my mind. It is easier.
American novelist
What is overriding that and most important is that readers generally are interested in a good character. They might be more comfortable with Harry because they think they know him, but they always seem willing to give somebody new a chance.
American novelist
We want our government to protect us, to make sure something like 9/11 never happens again. We quickly moved to give law enforcement more power to do this. But that now begs the question, did we move to fast? Did we give too much power away? I don’t have the answer.
American novelist
I think the only boundaries are individual and personal. A writer should be free to write about anything he or she wants to, including the twin towers. I have made small references to 9/11 in my past two books.
American novelist