Bigs Quote by Harlan Coben
“What I want to do is tell stories about normal people in the American suburbs. I don't write the book where it's a conspiracy reaching the prime minister; I don't write the book with the big serial killer who lops off heads. My setting is a very placid pool of suburbia, family life. And within that I can make pretty big splashes.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Discussing Writing Approach, Harlan Coben, 2015
The author prefers focusing on ordinary suburban lives, using everyday settings to create impactful narratives rather than sensational plots.
In simple terms: Focus on normal people in suburbs for strong stories.
Key Takeaway
Use familiar settings to craft compelling drama.
Themes
suburban life
family
everyday drama
human connection
realism
Mood
reflective
hopeful
introspective
Type
creative
observational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- teaching creative writing
- marketing books
Key Concepts
character depth
social observation
narrative tension
Questions to Reflect On
- How can mundane settings reveal deep truths?
- What techniques turn ordinary moments into drama?
A Different Perspective
May lack the excitement of high‑stakes plots for some readers.
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