Bill Clinton and James Patterson: The Unlikely Writing Duo Behind The First Gentleman
In a recent interview with the BBC, James Patterson revealed that he and his co-author, former US President Bill Clinton, have learned a thing or two from each other during their collaboration on the thriller novel, The First Gentleman. According to Patterson, one of the key takeaways from their partnership is the importance of research and authenticity in writing. "I’m paying much more attention to the sentences… I think I’m better than I’ve ever been, between keeping it real and being really conscious of the sentences," he said.
The BBC understands that the writing process for The First Gentleman was not without its challenges. Patterson admitted that the first drafts of the book were "a mess, honestly, which we’ve never had before." The characters, including the president, were not well-developed, and the journalists were not relatable. However, after Clinton called Patterson one night to express his concerns, saying "I have a real problem. I don’t give a damn about any of these people," the duo went back to the drawing board and added more depth and scenes to flesh out the characters.
The BBC’s conversation with Patterson highlighted the symbiotic relationship between the two authors, who share a similar outlook on life. "One of the things we have in common, I think we look at the world as not black and white. It’s always complicated. It’s subtle. There’s shades, and I think that’s one of the reasons we can work together," Patterson explained. This shared perspective is evident in the novel, which explores the complexities of politics and the human condition.
The First Gentleman, published by Century, tells the story of a president who must navigate a tumultuous moment in her life. As Clinton reflected on the novel, he drew parallels between the fictional narrative and his own experiences in the White House. "One thing I know something about, when the other side declares war on you in the White House, you still have to show up and do the job," he said. This sense of duty drives the plot of the novel and offers a valuable lesson for world leaders.
The BBC notes that The First Gentleman is the third book in a series co-authored by Clinton and Patterson. Their collaboration has resulted in a unique blend of politics, thriller elements, and character-driven storytelling. As Patterson noted, the novel’s twisting denouement is driven by a sense of duty and a commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, The First Gentleman is a gripping thriller that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of politics and the human condition. As reported by the BBC, the novel is a testament to the successful collaboration between Bill Clinton and James Patterson, who have managed to craft a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of life and politics. The First Gentleman by Bill Clinton and James Patterson is published by Century and is out now.
Source: BBC Culture
