PODCAST:Influential with Katty Kay
TITLE:Ken Follett
DATE:2023-12-08 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
In the "Influential with Katty Kay" podcast episode aired on December 8, 2023, Katty Kay interviews renowned fiction writer Ken Follett at his home in the English countryside. Follett, whose books have sold nearly 200 million copies worldwide, discusses his prolific career and the process behind his writing.
Follett's journey began as a newspaper reporter, and he wrote his first novel during his spare time while juggling a full-time job and family responsibilities. Despite facing initial rejections, his determination led to his breakthrough success with the 11th novel, "Eye of the Needle." He reflects on this novel with pride, acknowledging its quality and impact even after many years.
Follett's shift to writing medieval historical novels marked a significant departure from his previous works. His bestseller, "The Pillars of the Earth," about the building of a cathedral, was initially met with skepticism from his publishers but went on to become his most successful book, selling over 29 million copies. Follett discusses the creative risks involved in this transition and the importance of following his instincts as a writer.
In his conversation with Kay, Follett emphasizes the importance of emotionally engaging readers, stating that the key to a successful novel is making readers share the characters' emotions. He believes that plot is crucial in popular fiction to keep the story moving and the reader engaged.
Follett also touches on the themes of his novels, often dealing with significant historical events, revolutions in technology, wars, and societal changes. His characters, whether heroes or villains, are typically bold and decisive, driving the narrative forward.
The interview includes a tour of Follett's writing space, revealing his unique approach to drafting novels. He works on three screens, showing the first draft, feedback notes, and the second draft, which he writes from scratch. This meticulous process, taking a year for each stage, ensures the quality and depth of his work.
Throughout the conversation, Follett's passion for writing is evident. He describes writing not as a chore but as an activity he is deeply absorbed in and enjoys profoundly. The interview offers insights into Follett's creative process, his journey as a writer, and the dedication behind his globally successful novels.
