Tom Meredith

This has been a rather hastily written blog post in the wake of the sad news about Frederick Forsyth's passing. When it comes to influential writers, few hold a candle to Forsyth. Known for his intricate plots, rich narratives, and a strong pulse on political and international themes, Forsyth  carved out a niche for himself in the world of thriller fiction. His personal story is as interesting as the worlds he created, though, and few may know his career and life outside of writing. 

Few know that Forsyth was an accomplished pilot. He earned his private pilot's license in the 1970s and always had a zeal for flying. This hobby drove him to own several aircraft over the years, allowing him to explore the skies and visit remote locations. Forsyth often drew upon his experiences as a pilot to add authenticity to the aerial scenes in his narratives, showcasing his ability to intertwine personal passions with professional pursuits.

Forsyth's life outside of writing is also marked by a deep sense of commitment to various causes. He served as a pilot in the Royal Air Force for a brief time, and later, at the onset of the Biafran War in the late 1960s, he engaged in humanitarian efforts, using his skills to help those in need. His experiences during this tumultuous period resonate in his storytelling, reflecting the complexities and moral ambiguities that he encountered firsthand. It was also during this time that he later admitted to being an informant for MI6, unother experience which clearly influenced his later writing. 

Forsyth burst onto the literary scene with his debut novel, The Day of the Jackal, published in 1971. Many of you reading this will have seen the recent Eddie Redmayne television adaptation, but I would recommend the original film and most definitely the book itself. This masterpiece of suspense and intrigue showcases Forsyth’s talent for blending factual events with fictional storytelling in a way that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. His meticulous research and attention to detail set a new standard for what thrillers could be. The sense of realism and depth in his work has taught me the importance of grounding fiction in truth, even when crafting the wildest plots. 

One aspect of Forsyth's writing that resonates with me is his ability to create multifaceted characters. In stories like The Odessa File and The Fourth Protocol, the characters are not just vehicles for the plot; they are complex individuals driven by their motives, fears, and desires. This realisation has profoundly influenced my own character development. I’ve learned that readers engage more deeply with characters who feel real, with whom they can empathise, and this has encouraged me to delve deeper into the psyches of my characters. Even for those who have watched The Day of the Jackal, they will know that you can't help rooting for a character who should ostensibly be a villain. Being able to get readers to buy into a character who is doing bad things is exceptionally difficult and few are able to master it. 

Moreover, Forsyth’s narrative style inspires me to explore different storytelling techniques. His use of multiple perspectives and non-linear timelines demonstrates how versatile storytelling can be. By incorporating these techniques into my own work, I aim to create a more immersive experience for my readers, drawing them into a web of interconnected narratives that echo the disarray of life itself.

Forsyth’s political awareness and understanding of global affairs are also notable. His ability to tackle real-world issues, whether it be espionage, terrorism, or geopolitical tensions, while still delivering a gripping narrative inspires me to be bolder in exploring contemporary themes. It reminds me that writing can be more than just telling a story; it can be a platform for engaging with and reflecting on the world around us.

In the end, Frederick Forsyth's work became a beacon in my own writing journey. His storytelling craft encourages me to dig deeper, push boundaries, and never shy away from the truth. As I continue refining my voice and style, I carry a piece of Forsyth’s influence with me, always striving to create narratives that are not only thrilling but also meaningful. 

If you haven’t yet ventured into Forsyth's work, I strongly encourage you to dive in. His stories are not just reads; they are masterclasses in writing that offer countless lessons to aspiring authors like myself. Happy reading!