Meaning:
The quote "It was a lot of fun, and writing a series is comfortable. It's almost like having a secure job" by Thomas Perry, musician, reflects the mindset and experience of many authors who have chosen to write a series of books. Thomas Perry is known for his crime fiction novels featuring recurring characters, and it's clear from this quote that he finds the process of writing a series to be enjoyable and reliable.
When an author chooses to write a series, they are committing to developing and expanding a set of characters and storylines over multiple books. This can be an appealing prospect for both the writer and their readers. For the writer, a series provides a familiar framework within which to create new narratives, and for the readers, it offers the opportunity to further immerse themselves in a world they have grown to love.
The idea of writing a series being "comfortable" resonates with the notion that once an author has established the foundation of their series, they can continue to build upon it in subsequent installments. The characters and settings are already familiar to both the writer and the audience, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes and developments. This comfort can also come from the sense of continuity and routine that a series provides, much like having a secure job.
From a financial perspective, writing a successful series can indeed provide a level of security for an author. Once readers are invested in a series, they are likely to eagerly anticipate each new release, providing a reliable source of income for the writer. This is akin to having a secure job in the sense that there is an established demand for the author's work, creating a dependable income stream.
Furthermore, the process of writing a series can be enjoyable for authors as it allows them to delve deeper into the intricacies of their characters and their fictional world. With each new installment, authors have the opportunity to expand upon the existing lore, introduce new subplots, and challenge their characters in ways that keep the series fresh and engaging.
It's important to note, however, that writing a series also presents its own set of challenges. Maintaining consistency across multiple books, keeping the storyline engaging, and avoiding repetition are just a few of the hurdles that authors may encounter. Additionally, there is the pressure to meet reader expectations and deliver satisfying developments in each new installment.
In summary, Thomas Perry's quote encapsulates the appeal and rewards of writing a series. The sense of comfort and enjoyment that comes from working within a familiar framework, coupled with the potential for financial security, makes the endeavor of writing a series an attractive prospect for many authors. It's a testament to the enduring popularity and impact of series fiction in the literary world.