Imagine, then, Burke's arrival in the self-regarding City of Roses. Vachss says he's already planned his next novel, which he needs to write in the next 90 days or so to make Knopf's Autumn 2000 hardcover roster. He reports no shortage of Portland-area margins frayed enough to provide Burke with the raw material he needs to pursue his several chosen trades. So, while his creator's decision to set down stakes in this particular patch of dirt might remain something of a mystery, Burke's migration to Portland may salt the trail with a few clues. I didn't have any pressing need to get out of town.
People always think New York is a character in the books.
New York is a character in Burke's life, so you may not ever get my reasons for leaving, but you'll get his. All Rights Reserved.