Thanks for the post, Scott. I had never heard of Leigh Brackett. Fascinating.

Interesting what she says about Westerns and history. I've felt similarly about a number of works of (allegedly) historical fiction (e.g. The Patriot, 300, etc.) The actual history often times seems more interesting.

"I don't think there's anything better than screenwriting to teach you the construction of a story." As a writer of novels, plays, and screenplays, I heartily second this.

-CXW (Open ID is acting strange)

@Scott: Thank you. It's great to see her own thoughts on her screen-writing.

@CXW: You might like her novels. My two favourites: The Sword of Rhiannon (full disclosure: I wrote the introduction of the new edition) and The Long Tomorrow (fabulous post-apocalyptic tale, perfect, IMO, for the current fascination with same; I wish someone would reprint it).

"I don't think there's anything better than screenwriting to teach you the construction of a story"

If I never see any of my drama writing performed it will have been worthwhile for how it has informed my other writing.

The Long Goodbye is one of my favorite pictures so I guess Leigh Brackett is one of my favorite writers. Thanks for this one, Scott.