Meaning: Sue Grafton, an acclaimed American novelist, made the quoted statement in an interview where she discussed her writing process and the extensive research she undertook for her books. Grafton is best known for her "Alphabet Series," a collection of mystery novels featuring the private investigator Kinsey Millhone, with each book titled with a letter of the alphabet. The quote provides insight into Grafton's dedication to her craft and her meticulous approach to incorporating crime-related elements into her stories.

In the quote, Grafton describes the process of compiling an alphabetical list of all crime-related words she could think of. This approach reflects her commitment to authenticity and detail in her writing. By creating such a comprehensive list, Grafton sought to ensure that her novels were rich in the language and terminology associated with the world of crime and investigation. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Grafton's work, as she aimed to provide readers with an immersive and realistic experience within the genre of crime fiction.

Grafton's dedication to research and thoroughness is further emphasized as she mentions being "tied up until the year 2015 or so." This remark hints at the extensive amount of time she anticipated spending on her writing, indicating the depth of her commitment to producing high-quality, well-researched work. Grafton's willingness to invest significant time and effort into her writing process underscores her passion for creating compelling and authentic narratives within the crime genre.

The quote also sheds light on the level of planning and organization that Grafton incorporated into her writing. By systematically compiling an alphabetical list of crime-related words, she demonstrated a structured and methodical approach to developing the content of her novels. This deliberate effort to catalog and utilize a wide range of crime-related vocabulary speaks to Grafton's desire to infuse her writing with an air of credibility and precision.

Furthermore, the quote offers a glimpse into the mindset of a dedicated and detail-oriented author. Grafton's willingness to invest substantial time in compiling her list of crime-related words exemplifies her commitment to excellence in her writing. This dedication to thorough research and meticulous preparation underscores her desire to create authentic and immersive narratives that resonate with readers.

Overall, Sue Grafton's quote provides valuable insight into her writing process and the level of dedication she brought to her craft. Her commitment to compiling an extensive list of crime-related words, coupled with her willingness to invest significant time in research and planning, reflects her unwavering pursuit of excellence in the genre of crime fiction. Grafton's approach serves as a testament to the importance of thoroughness, authenticity, and attention to detail in creating compelling and immersive literary works.