Meaning: The quote "It seemed to me... that the only valid people to deal with crime were cops, and I would like to make the lead character, rather than a single person, a squad of cops" by Evan Hunter, the author, reflects his perspective on the portrayal of crime and law enforcement in literature. Evan Hunter, also known as Ed McBain, was a prolific author who wrote numerous crime fiction novels, including the popular 87th Precinct series. His statement sheds light on his creative approach to storytelling and the significance of law enforcement in his narratives.

Evan Hunter's quote reveals his intention to highlight the role of law enforcement in dealing with crime. He expresses the belief that cops are the most appropriate and credible individuals to address criminal activities. This perspective aligns with the traditional portrayal of law enforcement as the primary agents responsible for maintaining law and order in society. By emphasizing the importance of cops in dealing with crime, Hunter underscores the idea of professional expertise and authority in confronting criminal behavior.

Furthermore, the quote also underscores Hunter's desire to feature a squad of cops as the lead characters in his stories, rather than focusing on a single individual. This approach signifies a shift from the typical lone protagonist often seen in crime fiction. By centering the narrative around a team of police officers, Hunter seeks to capture the collaborative and collective nature of law enforcement work. This choice not only allows for a diverse range of characters but also enables the exploration of various perspectives and dynamics within the police force.

In the context of Hunter's literary works, particularly the 87th Precinct series, his preference for a squad of cops as the lead characters is evident. The series, set in the fictional city of Isola, revolves around the cases and investigations handled by the detectives of the 87th Precinct. Each installment features a group of dedicated officers working together to solve crimes, presenting a multifaceted portrayal of police work and the challenges they face. Hunter's decision to focus on a team of cops aligns with his vision of portraying crime and law enforcement in a more comprehensive and realistic manner.

By featuring a squad of cops as the central figures, Hunter's storytelling approach also allows for the exploration of the interpersonal dynamics, professional relationships, and individual complexities within the police department. The interactions and dynamics between the characters add depth to the narratives, offering readers a nuanced portrayal of the human side of law enforcement. Additionally, the ensemble cast of characters provides a rich tapestry of personalities, skills, and experiences, contributing to the complexity and authenticity of the stories.

Overall, Evan Hunter's quote encapsulates his perspective on the portrayal of crime and law enforcement in literature, emphasizing the significance of cops in addressing criminal activities and his preference for a team of officers as the lead characters. Through his approach, Hunter sought to present a more comprehensive and realistic depiction of police work, incorporating the collaborative nature of law enforcement and the multifaceted dynamics within the police force. His creative vision and storytelling choices continue to resonate with readers, highlighting the enduring appeal of his contributions to the crime fiction genre.