The BBC put together a series of programmes entitled Imagine… which looks at the arts and follows prominent figures within key areas, discussing the way they work, the industry they work in and the processes and lifestyle they follow. One of these programmes focussed on Ian Rankin, the famous author and crime-fiction novelist, whose most famous creation is the character Rebus and the novels that contain him.
It was a great insight into the workings of a prominent Author, the struggles he faced both from publishers, editors and agents, to the self-imposed fears that manifested themselves in the course of writing a novel. The programme follows Ian Rankin on his journey to writing his most recent novel Standing in Another Man’s Grave and is made up of a selection of interview questions and answers from Alan Yentob with Ian and also a large selection of musings and thoughts processes detailing the way Ian worked, all captured by camera crew or by video Diary. One of the most interesting aspects of the programme is how it shows the details and level of work undertaken by a prominent Crime author. The process he follows and, as many writers can attest to and feel relieved to hear, the fears and worries he faces throughout the process, right up until the final draft is sent off. You certainly wouldn’t need to be a fan of his work or that of crime fiction to appreciate the aim of the programme, but if you are im sure it would only add to the enjoyment of watching it.
For anyone who enjoys writing either as a hobby or profession I would recommend watching it if you can. Even if it’s just to allay your fears and show you that even the best of writers hit stumbling blocks along the way. British audiences can watch the programme on the BBC iplayer here: Ian Rankin and the Case of the Disappearing Detective until the 25th December, unfortunately if you are abroad im not sure if / how you can access it, but maybe you can find a bootleg copy somewhere?
So a programme to recommend for writers of all kinds, something to watch out for. I’ll have to keep an eye out for more similar things, and if you know of any feel free to pass on the info!
writingbeard 