Meaning: The quote "It's a matter of style. The Evan Hunter style and the Ed McBain style are very, very different." by Evan Hunter, also known as Ed McBain, is a thought-provoking statement that sheds light on the literary styles and personas of the renowned author. Evan Hunter, who adopted the pseudonym Ed McBain for his popular crime fiction novels, was a prolific writer known for his distinct and diverse writing styles under the two different names.

Evan Hunter, born Salvatore Albert Lombino, used the pen name Ed McBain to write his well-known 87th Precinct series, which revolutionized the crime fiction genre. The quote emphasizes the unique and contrasting styles that Hunter employed under his two distinct authorial identities. It reflects the idea that authors can exhibit variations in their writing styles, even when writing under different names or personas.

Evan Hunter's style, characterized by his real name, was often associated with his literary works that delved into human emotions, relationships, and societal issues. His novels under the name Evan Hunter often explored the complexities of human nature, family dynamics, and the impact of social constructs on individuals. This style was marked by a deep understanding of human psychology and an emphasis on character development and interpersonal relationships.

On the other hand, Ed McBain's style, as alluded to in the quote, was markedly different from that of Evan Hunter. Under the pseudonym Ed McBain, Hunter crafted gripping and fast-paced crime novels that were set in the fictional city of Isola. The 87th Precinct series, a cornerstone of McBain's literary legacy, showcased a distinct narrative style characterized by its focus on police procedurals, intricate plotlines, and the gritty urban landscape. McBain's writing style was known for its meticulous attention to detail, intricate plotting, and the portrayal of the harsh realities of crime and law enforcement.

The quote also hints at the author's ability to adapt and adopt different writing styles to cater to diverse literary genres and reader preferences. It underscores the versatility of Evan Hunter/Ed McBain as an author, demonstrating his capacity to seamlessly transition between writing styles and genres, catering to a wide range of readers.

Furthermore, the quote invites readers and literary enthusiasts to contemplate the nuances of an author's style and the impact it has on their body of work. It prompts an exploration of the distinct elements that contribute to an author's style, including narrative voice, thematic choices, character development, and the overall tone of the writing.

In summary, Evan Hunter's quote "It's a matter of style. The Evan Hunter style and the Ed McBain style are very, very different." offers valuable insight into the multifaceted nature of an author's identity and the diverse writing styles they can embody. It serves as a reminder of the complexity and adaptability of literary voices, encouraging readers to appreciate the rich tapestry of an author's body of work and the varied styles they can encapsulate within it.