CLEAN : No time like the past as genre-busting history buff Ellroy

The speaker discusses their lifelong interest in history, particularly the historical events of the mid-20th century. They express a disconnection from modern technology and culture, preferring to write by hand and focus on historical novels. The speaker outlines their writing career, emphasizing a unified history of LA and America through their novels. They express a desire to continue writing large, epic books and claim originality in their genre creation.

What historical events does the speaker mention as part of their lifelong interest?

• The Japanese internment and the Spanish Civil War

• The Cold War and the Space Race

• The French Revolution and the Industrial Revolution

• The American Civil War and the Vietnam War

How does the speaker prefer to write their books?

• Using a typewriter

• Dictating to an assistant

• On a computer

• By hand

What is the speaker's response to questions about writing about contemporary America?

• They believe their work already reflects modern America

• They are open to exploring modern themes

• They are tired of such questions and focus on historical narratives

• They plan to write about modern America in the future

What is the speaker's goal in terms of their literary work?

• To focus solely on contemporary issues

• To create a unified history of Los Angeles and America

• To write short, concise novels

• To write exclusively about World War Two

What unique approach does the speaker take in their writing?

• Adapting classic novels into modern settings

• Writing exclusively in the science fiction genre

• Focusing only on crime novels

• Combining crime, historical, and political genres