Conclave Author Interview: Robert Harris

Trend Radar

You need 4 min read

·

Post on Jan 24, 2025

40 visitor like this post

Share

Conclave Author Interview: Robert Harris – A Deep Dive into Papal Politics and Thrilling Suspense

Hey bookworms! So, I recently had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Robert Harris, the master of historical thrillers. You know, the guy behind Fatherland, Enigma, and Munich? Yeah, that Robert Harris. We talked all things Conclave, his latest page-turner about the secret election of a new Pope. Let me tell you, it was intense.

I'll admit, before this interview, I only knew the surface level stuff about Harris. I knew he was a big deal, but I didn't fully appreciate his meticulous research and the sheer amount of work that goes into crafting these intricately plotted novels. I mean, the guy practically lives in the Vatican archives (okay, maybe not, but you get the picture!).

The Genesis of Conclave: From Idea to Page-Turner

One thing that really struck me was his process. He doesn’t just write these books; he builds them. He starts with a single, compelling idea – in this case, the intrigue and power struggles behind a papal election – and then painstakingly researches every detail. He talked about spending weeks poring over historical documents, interviewing experts on the Catholic Church, and even observing a real-life conclave (metaphorically, of course!).

He confessed to some early struggles, even mentioning writer's block early on in the process. “It’s tough,” he said, “sometimes the words just don’t flow.” I totally get that. I've had my own share of writer's block moments where I've stared at a blank screen for hours, my brain feeling like scrambled eggs.

The Importance of Authenticity in Historical Fiction

But what really sets Harris apart is his dedication to authenticity. He’s not just writing a thrilling story; he's trying to illuminate a fascinating and often misunderstood world. He emphasized the importance of getting the historical details right, not just for accuracy but to enhance the overall impact of the story. This, he said, is crucial to building a believable and compelling narrative.

The level of detail in Conclave is mind-boggling. From the intricacies of the voting process to the personalities of the cardinals, everything feels real and palpable. He even managed to weave in complex theological debates in a way that’s both engaging and accessible – no small feat!

The Challenges of Writing Conclave (And Mine Too!)

The interview wasn't all sunshine and roses, though. Harris confessed to some challenges he faced while writing Conclave. He mentioned struggling with balancing the intricate plot with the emotional depth of the characters. He also talked about the pressure of meeting reader expectations, especially after the success of his previous novels.

I completely related. I know firsthand the struggles of maintaining narrative consistency and character development across thousands of words. Sometimes, it feels like a relentless battle between creativity and self-doubt!

Lessons Learned: Research, Revision, and Patience (Oh My!)

Harris's advice? Lots of research. Even more revision. And a healthy dose of patience. He stressed the importance of allowing the story to breathe, of not rushing the process, and of letting the characters evolve organically.

He mentioned specific editing techniques: working with a trusted editor (vital!), reading the manuscript aloud to catch awkward phrasing, and taking breaks to gain fresh perspective. This is something I've learned too; sometimes stepping away helps you see your work with clear eyes.

Beyond the Book: The Bigger Picture

Our conversation went beyond the book itself. We touched upon the broader themes explored in Conclave, such as the nature of power, faith, and the human condition. These are universal themes that resonate deeply, regardless of religious affiliation. His exploration of these themes certainly kept me thinking well after finishing the novel.

This interview wasn't just a chance to grill an author; it was a masterclass in storytelling and the painstaking craft of historical fiction. If you’re a fan of Robert Harris or just enjoy well-written historical thrillers, I highly recommend checking out Conclave. You won't be disappointed. It's a real page-turner, and you'll appreciate the detail and depth even more after learning about the work that went into it. Trust me.