back to contents

Colin Dexter Interviewed

Why did you start writing your first Morse story?

It was boredom. It was on a rain-drenched weekend in North Wales in 1973. I had read the two crime novels in the boarding house and I thought I might be able to do almost as well myself. So I spent a Saturday afternoon writing a page or two (no more) of what was to become LBUS.

Which of Morse’s characteristics make him so endearing and do any reflect in you?

Morse is sensitive to music and to the poets; he’s got a melancholic temperament; he’s got an alpha-plus mind; in spite of his irascibility, he’s got a deep sense of integrity and compassion; he’s likely to fall too readily for attractive women. He’s like me in having no religious faith, a congenital incapacity to vote Tory, and a huge admiration for Wagner and A. E. Housman - but he’s far meaner with money!

Our listeners love the plots of the Morse stories for their twists, turns and red herrings. Where did you find the inspiration for such intricate plots?

I only wrote in the evenings after listening to The Archers and before going off to the local hostelry for a few glasses of beer. If ever I got stuck with ideas, a glass or two of single malt invariably seemed to solve the problem!

Which one of the Morse stories is your favourite?

Probably JERI, although I’m not quite sure why.

What do you think about Kevin Whately reading the audio book versions of your Morse stories?

It pleases me enormously that Kevin agreed to read so many of the novels, for he is as splendid a reader as he is an actor. I am much gratified by the success of the Morse audio books.

Do you still write regularly?

No – I’m too old and weary! My days of devising convincing plots are now almost all behind me.

(This article first appeared in the Listen 2 Books magazine, number 601, and is reproduced here with permission)