Elmore Leonard: From Westerns to Crime Novels
Elmore Leonard, the acclaimed crime novelist known for his gritty realism and ear for everyday speech, began his career as a successful author of Westerns.
Westerns to Crime Novels
Leonard’s fascination with guns, fueled by the sensational headlines of Bonnie and Clyde, led him to crime novels. He explained his shift in genres in a 1999 interview with The New York Times:
“I chose westerns as a way to get into writing… Because there was soon to be a limitless market of better magazines… When the Western market disappeared because of television, I switched to crime which I considered a very commercial genre, to continue to write.”
Unique Approach to Crime Fiction
Leonard’s unique approach to crime fiction set him apart from his contemporaries. He focused on character development rather than plot, earning him the moniker “the Dickens of Detroit.”
Leonard’s writing style was characterized by his ability to capture the cadence of everyday speech and his liberties with grammar. His short story published in The New Yorker in 1994 exemplifies his distinctive style.
Recognition and Legacy
Leonard received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the National Book Award for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters in 2012. His acceptance speech highlighted his love of writing and his appreciation for the recognition he received.
Unfinished Work
Leonard was in the midst of writing his 46th novel when he suffered a stroke in 2013. Despite his initial recovery, he passed away from complications of the stroke.
The fate of his unfinished novel remains uncertain. His researcher, Greg Sutter, broke the news of Leonard’s passing on Facebook, stating that Leonard had been working diligently on the novel before his hospitalization.
Leonard’s legacy as a master of both Westerns and crime novels continues to inspire writers and readers alike. His unique approach to characterization and his ability to capture the essence of everyday life have left an enduring mark on the literary landscape.
Additional Details
- Leonard woke up early each day to write in a “cell-like” room before heading to his advertising job.
- He ordered a thousand unlined legal pads a year for his longhand writing.
- Despite his health issues, Leonard remained committed to his writing schedule.
- Leonard’s unfinished 46th novel may remain unsolved, leaving his readers with a tantalizing glimpse into his final work.
