Robert Immerse – Turning Real-LifeAdventures into Riveting Fiction
My life has been an exploration. Probably that’s why I’ve had so many different (and always fun) careers. The idea of exploration carries over into my fiction.
Robert Emmers, an acclaimed author, has lived a life brimming with extraordinary adventures and experiences that fuel his vivid storytelling. Although he once aspired to write in Paris, Emmers’ path led him into journalism, a decision that laid the groundwork for his eclectic career. His professional journey has included roles as a private investigator, insurance fraud detective, and crisis communications specialist. These varied experiences have enriched his fiction, providing a wealth of material drawn from real-life escapades, such as evading federal subpoenas, facing mob threats, and tracking fugitives.
Now residing in the serene woods of northwest Pennsylvania, Emmers has returned to his true passion: writing fiction. His latest works, “The Secret History” and the short story “Where Did All the Dentists Go?”, are a testament to his ability to intertwine action-packed narratives with profound existential themes. Emmers’ writing is a direct reflection of his adventurous career, combining the thrill of past exploits with the disciplined, concise style honed in the newsroom.
In a revealing interview with Reader’s House, Emmers discussed how his diverse professional experiences have shaped his storytelling. He credits his journalism background for his concise writing style, reminiscent of Hemingway. However, he notes that the action and confrontation inherent in his investigative work have profoundly influenced his fiction, ensuring a dynamic and engaging narrative.
“The Secret History” explores themes of government death squads, crime, and vengeance. Emmers explained that the novel originated from his experiences in crisis communication, where he often served as a street-level fixer. Initially an unpublished novel featuring a character named Dahl, the story evolved from a short story set in Mexico—a country Emmers is fond of. The novel’s scenes blend his personal experiences with creative imagination.
The short story “Where Did All the Dentists Go?” began with a compelling first line that transformed into a narrative inspired by the Japanese phenomenon of johatsu, where people disappear to start new lives. Emmers emphasizes that he doesn’t consciously focus on themes, but a recurring motif in his work is the idea of constant movement and evasion.
Emmers sees parallels between his protagonists’ quests for answers and his own journey as a writer. His varied careers mirror the explorative nature of his characters, who are always in search of something. In “The Secret History,” the characters, though flawed, are intriguing due to their relentless pursuit of answers.
When it comes to balancing intricate plots with existential themes, Emmers prefers the freedom of short stories, which allow for spontaneous narrative development. He finds the novel-writing process more structured and meticulous, often requiring detailed outlines that may evolve as characters take control. His favorite theme in novels is seeking redemption and moving forward.
Emmers is particularly drawn to unconventional settings and characters, often writing about drunks, misfits, and people in bizarre situations. This fascination stems from the contrast with his relatively conventional life as a writer. Through his characters, he explores worlds far removed from his own, creating immersive and compelling fictional realms. Writing allows him to escape his desk-bound reality and inhabit the lives of crooks and eccentrics.
Whether set in the perilous streets of Mexico or a mysterious village, Robert Emmers’ stories offer readers a blend of action, intrigue, and existential exploration. His ability to draw from his adventurous past and infuse it with imagination makes his fiction both gripping and thought-provoking. As he continues to write, Emmers invites readers to embark on journeys filled with excitement and discovery.
