Robert Ludlum
Robert Ludlum: A Master of Thriller Fiction
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Robert Ludlum was born on May 25, 1927, in New York City, New York. He is commonly known by his full name, but some of his notable works have also been associated with the pseudonyms John Milton or Michael Shepherd.
Birth and Death Dates
May 25, 1927 – March 12, 2001
Nationality and Profession(s)
American author of thriller fiction novels. Ludlum is best known for creating the Jason Bourne series, a collection of espionage thrillers that have become iconic in popular culture.
Early Life and Background
Ludlam's early life was marked by tragedy when his mother died at a young age due to complications from childbirth. He was raised by his father, a stockbroker, and grew up in a middle-class family. Ludlum developed an interest in writing at an early age and began working as a journalist for the _Saturday Evening Post_ before transitioning to writing fiction.
Major Accomplishments
Ludlam's breakthrough novel, The Scarlatti Inheritance (1971), launched his career as a thriller author. However, it was not until the publication of The Osterman Weekend (1972) that he gained widespread recognition for his unique blend of espionage, politics, and suspenseful storytelling. His most notable creation is undoubtedly Jason Bourne, who first appeared in The Bourne Identity (1980). This series has been adapted into numerous films, cementing Ludlum's reputation as a master of thriller fiction.
Notable Works or Actions
Ludlam's bibliography spans over three decades and includes more than 20 novels. Some of his notable works include:
The Bourne Series: Comprising six novels, this series follows the adventures of Jason Bourne, an amnesiac assassin, as he navigates a complex web of espionage and counter-intelligence.
The Covert-One Series: This series consists of five novels and introduces readers to Jon Smith, a microbiologist who works for a clandestine organization known as Covert-One.
Impact and Legacy
Ludlam's influence on the thriller genre cannot be overstated. His innovative storytelling style has inspired countless authors, including bestselling writers like Tom Clancy and John Grisham. The Jason Bourne series, in particular, has become an iconic part of popular culture, with numerous film adaptations grossing billions at the box office.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ludlam's success can be attributed to his unique ability to craft complex characters and intricate plots that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His novels often explore themes of identity, loyalty, and morality, making them thought-provoking as well as entertaining. The impact of his work extends beyond the literary world, with many considering him a pioneer in the thriller genre.
In conclusion, Robert Ludlam's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of fiction. His contributions to the thriller genre have inspired generations of authors and continue to captivate readers worldwide.
Quotes by Robert Ludlum
I start every book with something that outrages me. I'm outraged by the FBI, the CIA, and computers that seem to have catalogued our lives. Power too often is accompanied by irresponsibility.
I don't believe that my first name is Leo or that my last name is Tolstoy. I'm a storyteller.
He may be a scholar, but he’s first a man who believes – with certain justification – that he was betrayed by his government.
It’s a geometric puzzle; it can happen in any combination of ways. Physically or psychologically – or a little of both. It can be permanent or temporary, all or part. No rules!
There’s a rift in this country between the people and its leaders. There is corruption at the highest levels of government; it goes beyond mere power politics. The Constitution has been seriously assaulted, our way of life threatened.
Because the physical conduits that permit and transmit those memories have been altered. Physically rearranged to the point where they no longer function as they once did. For all intents and purposes, they’ve been destroyed.
The mind plays tricks. It rejects things until it thinks – or something tells it – that the remembering can be handled.
You know, Mr. Webb, you have two commands you use with irritating frequency. ‘Move’ and ‘Let’s go.
You appear to be a mass of contradictions,” Dr Washburn said. “There’s a subsurface violence almost always in control, but very much alive. There’s also a pensiveness that seems painful for you, yet you rarely give vent to the anger that pain must provoke.
Wealth is relative to the amount of time one has to enjoy it. I wouldn’t have five minutes.