Marlon James describes writing as detective work, stating, 'I've always looked at novel writing and storytelling as a kind of detective work... Characters show up in my head and I wonder why.' This approach informs his creative process, allowing him to deeply explore character motivations and complexities.
In 'Get Millie Black', the series revolves around Millie, an obsessive detective returning to Jamaica, who confronts her own demons as she investigates a missing girl. The series probes into themes of family and cultural conflict, culminating in a gripping exploration of the local criminal underworld.
Millie, voiced by Tamara Lawrance in the HBO adaptation, highlights a pervasive theme by saying, 'In this country, nothing haunts like history... you see a shadow reaching back 400 years.' This reflection on historical trauma adds depth to the series, intertwining personal and national narratives.
James's personal connection to the role of women in policing is underscored by the legacy of his mother, who became a detective in the 1950s Jamaica. He reflects on her struggles in a male-dominated field, noting that such themes of resilience are pertinent in both his writing and the series.
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