Storytelling is the heart of every great narrative.

[STUDIOMUSIK]

[APPLÅDER]

David Baldacci is known for his gripping narratives and complex characters, a master of weaving tales that keep readers turning the pages late into the night.

[LÅNG APPLÅD]

David Baldacci enters the stage with a warm smile, his presence brightening the room.

The two settle comfortably into their chairs.

Parkinson: It’s always a pleasure to have you here, David. Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us a little about your childhood?

David Baldacci: Ah, my childhood. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia. It was a small, tight-knit community where everyone knew each other. My parents were both very supportive of every endeavor my brother and I pursued. They encouraged our imaginations, and the love for storytelling began early for me. I remember my father reading to us every night. Those moments were magical; they opened up new worlds for us.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: That sounds lovely. Were there particular stories that impacted you?

David Baldacci: Absolutely! I was fascinated by stories that had twists and turns, like those by Agatha Christie. I loved how she could build suspense and keep you guessing until the very end. I think that ignited my passion for writing mysteries and thrillers. It was like a secret world just waiting to be explored.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: And what about your family? How did they view your journey toward becoming a writer?

David Baldacci: My family was supportive, yet practical. They believed in pursuing a stable career, so while they encouraged my writing, they also nudged me towards something more traditional. I ended up studying law and working as a lawyer for a while, but my heart was always in storytelling. My family has always been my biggest cheerleaders, and I’m grateful for their support.

[LÄTT SKRATT]

Parkinson: A lawyer turned novelist—there’s a plot twist if I’ve ever heard one! What was your first dream as a child?

David Baldacci: I remember wanting to be a superhero! I’d don a cape and pretend to save the world. But as I grew older, that dream shifted toward wanting to be a writer. I realized that through writing, I could create my own worlds and characters who could do incredible things. It felt empowering.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: That’s beautiful. And what about your biggest fear as a child?

David Baldacci: I think my greatest fear was failing. I always had this vision of what I wanted to achieve, but the fear of not being good enough haunted me. It took years to understand that the journey itself is what matters, not just the destination. Everyone has to start somewhere, right?

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Very true. Speaking of journeys, let’s talk about your breakthrough. What was that moment like for you?

David Baldacci: My big break came when my first novel, Absolute Power, was published. I still remember the day vividly. I was in my office, and I received the call from my agent saying it had been picked up. It felt surreal. I was filled with excitement but also a sense of dread. Would people like it? Would they connect with my characters? That combination of hope and fear is something every writer experiences.

[LÄTT SKRATT]

Parkinson: And what about the cost of success? Has it come with sacrifices?

David Baldacci: Absolutely, it has. Success brings with it new expectations and responsibilities. I often find myself torn between the need to create and the demands of public life. There were times when I missed family gatherings or important moments because I was caught up in deadlines. But I’ve learned to find balance—it’s crucial for my sanity.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: It sounds like a delicate balancing act. Do you ever feel lonely in this journey?

David Baldacci: Yes, I do. Writing, although a solitary endeavor, can become quite isolating. When you pour your heart and soul into a book, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the world outside. I often crave the company of friends but also push myself to stay in that creative space. It’s a constant battle between wanting to be social and needing to be alone to create.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: It’s interesting how that works. Do you think your friends and family ever misunderstand your work and the time you invest in it?

David Baldacci: I think so. There’s often a misconception that writing is just a hobby or that it comes easily. People may not realize the countless hours, the revisions, and the emotional toll it takes. I try to communicate with my loved ones about my process, but it’s hard to convey the depth of commitment it requires.

[LÄTT SKRATT]

Parkinson: I can see that! Let’s pivot a bit. Is there something you regret not doing or pursuing more in your life?

David Baldacci: There are always things we look back on with a sense of ’what if.’ I sometimes wish I had traveled more when I was younger. I love discovering new cultures and landscapes, and I think they could have enriched my writing even further. But, you know, I believe in living in the moment and making the most of our current opportunities. Regrets can be heavy.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Wise words, indeed. Are there any secrets or aspects of your life that you rarely talk about?

David Baldacci: Sure, there’s a side to me that’s more introspective. I often carry a lot of personal experiences into my writing, but I don’t always share those stories publicly. There’s a vulnerability in opening up, which I do reserve for my written words. My characters might sometimes reflect parts of my own struggles, but that’s not always easy to admit.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: That’s understandable. Let’s lighten the mood a bit. How about love? What does that mean to you?

David Baldacci: Love is a powerful thing. I think it’s the most significant driving force in our lives. My wife is my greatest supporter, and our relationship has been a cornerstone for me. Love also influences my characters. It can bring out the best and the worst in people, and exploring that is fascinating.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Beautifully said. Now, on a more somber note, what are your thoughts on mortality?

David Baldacci: Mortality is something we all must face, isn’t it? I think about it often, especially as I write. It gives life depth and meaning. The acknowledgment of our finite time here encourages us to make the most of each moment. It’s a reminder to cherish relationships and experiences, which is why I pour so much into my work.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Profound reflections, indeed. As we wrap up, what do you hope people remember you for when they think of you?

David Baldacci: I hope they remember my stories and the emotions they evoke. If my work inspires someone, makes them think, or even just entertains them, I’ll feel I’ve achieved something meaningful. I want my books to be a part of people’s lives, a little escape or a catalyst for thought.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: That’s a remarkable legacy to aspire to. Now, for the final question: If you could have dinner with any person, alive or dead, who would it be?

David Baldacci: That’s a tough one! I’d have to say Mark Twain. His wit and perspective on human nature are timeless. I’d love to hear his thoughts on the world today.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Why Twain?

David Baldacci: His ability to capture the human experience with humor and insight fascinates me. Plus, he had a way of commenting on societal norms that resonates even now.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: What question would you ask him?

David Baldacci: I’d ask him how he would approach storytelling in today’s digital world. I’m curious about how he’d adapt his sharp observations.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: And what do you hope he would say?

David Baldacci: I hope he’d encourage me to embrace change and keep pushing boundaries in my writing.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: As we conclude, if people mention your name a hundred years from now, what do you hope they say?

David Baldacci: I hope they say that I provided them with a sense of adventure and connection through my stories. That would be enough for me.

[TYSTNAD]

Parkinson: Thank you so much for your time today, David. It has been a pleasure.

[LÅNG APPLÅD]

[STUDIOMUSIK TONAR UPP]

SLUT.