How did Dan Erickson come up with Severance? The answer lies in a perfect blend of creativity, empathy, and the observation of human behavior. As an author, Erickson has always been fascinated by the intricacies of human relationships and the societal norms that shape our lives. It was during a particularly thought-provoking conversation with a friend that the seed for his novel, Severance, was planted.
Severance is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the dark side of corporate America. The story revolves around a high-powered executive, Alex Wyler, who discovers a chilling secret about his company, Ventech. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Alex realizes that the company is engaged in unethical practices that could potentially lead to the loss of thousands of jobs. Faced with moral dilemmas and a race against time, Alex must decide whether to confront the truth or stay silent.
Erickson’s inspiration for the novel came from his personal experiences working in the corporate world. “I’ve always been curious about the power dynamics and the human cost of these large organizations,” he explains. “The idea for Severance came to me when I was discussing the concept of severance packages with a friend. We were both pondering the irony of offering financial compensation to employees for losing their jobs, while the company continued to thrive.”
However, Erickson didn’t want to write a straightforward exposé of corporate greed. Instead, he sought to create a story that would resonate with readers on a deeper level. “I wanted to explore the psychological impact of losing one’s job, and how it can change someone’s life forever,” he says. “Severance is not just about the external conflict between the protagonist and the corporation; it’s also about the internal battle that Alex faces as he grapples with his own values and fears.”
One of the key aspects that make Severance stand out is Erickson’s ability to create relatable characters. “I wanted Alex to be someone that readers could identify with, someone who is both flawed and heroic,” he explains. “He’s a man who has worked hard to climb the corporate ladder, but who is now faced with the prospect of losing everything he’s worked for.”
As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, as they witness Alex’s transformation from a loyal employee to a whistleblower. Erickson’s meticulous research and attention to detail in depicting the corporate world have helped him create a world that feels both believable and terrifyingly real.
In conclusion, Dan Erickson’s inspiration for Severance stemmed from his personal experiences and his desire to delve into the psychological impact of job loss. By crafting a story that combines a gripping plot with relatable characters, Erickson has managed to create a novel that not only entertains but also challenges readers to reflect on their own values and the role of corporations in society. How did Dan Erickson come up with Severance? It was a perfect storm of curiosity, empathy, and a keen eye for human nature.
