Tea, Tales, and Thrillers: The Adrian McKinty Experience

Welcome to a deep dive into the fascinating world of storytelling with New York Times bestselling author Adrian McKinty, creator of the gripping Sean Duffy series. In this extensive conversation, Adrian shares his journey from bartender and high school English teacher to acclaimed crime novelist, offering invaluable insights into the writing process, cultural quirks, and the power of finishing your story no matter the obstacles.

Whether you're an aspiring author seeking inspiration or simply a fan of compelling tales and witty banter, this exploration of Adrian’s experiences, sprinkled with anecdotes about everything from radio DJ voices to Irish slang, tea culture, and the perfect bagel, promises to be an engaging ride.

From Belfast to Bestseller: Adrian McKinty’s Journey
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Adrian McKinty’s path to literary success is anything but conventional. Growing up in Belfast amidst the Troubles, he absorbed a rich tapestry of stories and characters that would later fuel his crime fiction narratives. Before becoming a full-time writer, Adrian wore many hats—bartender, radio DJ, and high school English teacher—all of which played significant roles in shaping his storytelling craft.

His time behind the bar was particularly formative. Working late-night shifts, Adrian encountered a diverse array of patrons, each with their own tales of hardship, hope, and heartbreak. These real-life encounters gave him a unique window into human nature and the complexity of character motivations. As he puts it, “You need a therapist, or a priest, or something,” to listen to the stories people share when they’re vulnerable, especially in those quiet hours.

Teaching high school English deepened Adrian’s appreciation for literature. Engaging with classics like _The Great Gatsby_ and _To Kill a Mockingbird_ not only enriched his understanding but also allowed him to connect with new generations of readers. He recalls how teaching these texts made him truly read and understand them on a level he hadn’t before, transforming seemingly “dead” classics into vibrant narratives full of humor and insight.

The Magic of the First Draft: Writing Advice from Adrian McKinty
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One of the most powerful takeaways from Adrian’s experience is his advice to aspiring writers: **finish your story, no matter what.** He emphasizes that the universe is conspiring against you—distractions, exhaustion, self-doubt, and countless other forces will try to stop you. But overcoming these obstacles and completing that first draft is a victory in itself.

> “Finish it. Whatever it is, whatever you’re working on, it’s not going to be perfect. It never is perfect. And that’s what stops so many people. Just write, finish the story, get to page four, and then go back and do the rewrite.” – Adrian McKinty

Adrian shares that even a rough, “horrible” first draft can be saved in the editing process. He reminds writers that many iconic works, like _Star Wars_, were initially met with skepticism and underwent significant revision before becoming the masterpieces we know today. The key is to get the story down first, then shape and refine it.

Language, Slang, and Northern Irish Charm
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The conversation naturally drifts into the colorful language and slang of Northern Ireland, which Adrian infuses into his writing to add authenticity and humor. Here are a few intriguing examples:

*   **Peelers:** A nickname for police officers in Ireland, deriving from Sir Robert Peel, who founded the police force in Britain and Ireland during the 19th century. While “Bobbies” is common in England, “Peelers” is the Irish equivalent.
*   **Slabber:** A term for an annoying child who’s too young to be disciplined physically, leaving adults to merely tolerate their antics.
*   **Shifty:** Someone sneaky or up to something suspicious, often used in the phrase “we shifty.”
*   **Gutties:** Belfast slang for sneakers or training shoes, a regional term whose exact origin remains unclear.
*   **Clock:** To “clock” something means to notice or realize it completely, similar to the concept of “grock” from science fiction writer Robert Heinlein.

These words and phrases enrich Adrian’s novels, grounding them in the cultural and linguistic realities of Northern Ireland, while providing readers with a glimpse into a world that’s both familiar and distinctively local.

The Cultural Significance of Tea and Other Flavors
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A delightful portion of the discussion centers around the cultural rituals surrounding tea, food, and drink—elements that deeply resonate in Adrian’s work and personal life.

Tea, especially in Ireland and the UK, is more than just a beverage; it’s a social glue, a comfort in times of stress, and a symbol of hospitality. Adrian shares a charming anecdote about the importance of offering tea even to one’s worst enemy, illustrating the unspoken social rules that govern Northern Irish hospitality. Refusing tea can be a diplomatic faux pas, as evidenced by stories of peace envoys who endured dozens of cups daily in delicate negotiations.

Adrian also contrasts the quality of Irish butter with what he’s encountered abroad, describing the rich, golden butter from cows grazing on lush grass as an “ethereal” experience when spread on homemade bread. He praises Northern Irish brands like Drummona and Golden Cow as superior to even the popular Kerry Gold brand, highlighting how simple pleasures can be profound.

The conversation then ventures into the realm of bagels, with Adrian expressing his allegiance to the New York-style everything bagel with schmear, capers, and onions, a culinary religion in its own right. Despite the hype around Montreal bagels, he stands firm that nothing beats the classic Brooklyn version, reflecting the passionate regional food loyalties that spice up everyday life.

Behind the Scenes of Storytelling: Interview Insights and Writing Life
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Adrian offers a rare peek into the life of an author navigating the business side of storytelling. He discusses the challenges of adapting novels like _The Chain_ for the screen, noting that the complexity and length of his stories often make them better suited for series rather than single films.

He also reflects on the sometimes adversarial relationship with copy editors, who often push back against slang, repetition, and unconventional grammar. While this editing process can be tough, Adrian acknowledges it as a necessary collaboration to polish the final product.

On the topic of interviews, Adrian and his host share amusing stories about the range of author personalities they’ve encountered—from easygoing conversationalists like Don Winslow to shy or reluctant guests who struggle with public speaking. These anecdotes highlight the human side of the literary world, reminding us that behind the books are real people with quirks and vulnerabilities.

Pop Culture, Writing Craft, and Literary Influences
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The discussion naturally weaves in references to beloved pop culture and literary influences. Adrian praises Aaron Sorkin’s masterful screenwriting, especially the screenplay for _The Social Network_, which he admires despite disliking the characters. He also recommends the TV series _Adolescence_, notable for being filmed in single takes, a filmmaking feat that fascinates him as a closet filmmaker.

Adrian’s love of music, particularly jazz and artists like Miles Davis, is evident in his reading of a passage from his novel, where the atmosphere of a Belfast living room is vividly evoked with references to Arvo Pärt’s _Spiegel im Spiegel_. This blending of music, place, and mood exemplifies his multi-sensory approach to storytelling.

Whiskey Wisdom: A Taste of Tradition
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Whiskey, like tea, holds a special place in Adrian’s heart. He shares his preference for peated whiskeys from Scotland’s western isles, including brands like Laphroaig and Bowmore, and admires the craftsmanship behind well-blended whiskeys like Johnnie Walker.

His disdain for inaccuracies in popular media is palpable, recalling a moment in _The West Wing_ where the pronunciation of “Islay” whiskey was botched, shattering his immersion in the show. This attention to detail underscores the importance of authenticity, both in writing and storytelling.

Final Thoughts: The Heart of Storytelling
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At its core, this rich conversation with Adrian McKinty celebrates the joy of storytelling in all its forms—the written word, spoken dialogue, cultural rituals, and shared human experiences. His journey from Belfast to bestseller status, his candid reflections on the writing process, and his infectious enthusiasm for the simple pleasures of life invite readers and writers alike to embrace their creative passions wholeheartedly.

To learn more about Adrian McKinty and his work, including the Sean Duffy series, visit [adrienmckinty.com](https://adrienmckinty.com). Whether you’re diving into a thriller, savoring a cup of tea, or crafting your own story, remember Adrian’s sage advice: finish your work, no matter how messy the first draft may be. That’s where the true victory lies.

Additional Resources and Recommendations
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*   **Adrian McKinty’s Official Website:** [adrianmckinty.com](https://adrienmckinty.com)
*   **The Sean Duffy Series:** Dive into this acclaimed crime fiction series that blends sharp wit, authentic cultural detail, and thrilling narratives.
*   **Books on Writing:** For those inspired by Adrian’s advice, consider exploring resources on completing first drafts and the editing process.
*   **Pop Culture Viewing:** Check out Aaron Sorkin’s _The Social Network_ for masterful screenwriting and _Adolescence_ for innovative filmmaking techniques.
*   **Tea and Whiskey Exploration:** Experiment with Irish and Scottish whiskeys like Laphroaig, Bowmore, and Johnnie Walker blends, and savor quality Irish butter on homemade bread paired with a good cup of tea.

In the world of thrillers, crime fiction, and storytelling, the journey is as compelling as the destination. Adrian McKinty’s experience reminds us to embrace every step, from the first hesitant word to the final polished page, and to savor the flavors—both literal and metaphorical—that enrich our lives along the way.

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