Ian Rankin: Tartan Noir, Overcoat Media’s two parter about Ian Rankin’s creative process for his next Rebus novel, is now available on BBC World Service.
Crime fiction legend Sir Ian Rankin opens the door—literally and figuratively—to his creative process in In the Studio: Tartan Noir. Set against the moody backdrop of Edinburgh, the episode follows Rankin’s everyday routines, from morning coffee runs to late-night writing sprints. We’re invited into his world as he crafts the latest Rebus novel, Midnight and Blue, with the protagonist now navigating life behind bars. Rankin reveals his spontaneous, non-linear approach to writing, his reliance on ambient music, and the vital editorial input of his wife, Miranda. We also glimpse his archives and musical past, shedding light on how teenage punk energy helped shape Rebus’s rebellious spirit. Despite decades of success, Rankin admits to self-doubt and writing fog—but as long as he keeps going, the story finds its way.
Q&A Section
- What is Ian Rankin’s writing process like?
He writes in short, intense bursts, often without a daily word count, and lets the story unfold scene by scene. - Where does Ian Rankin do most of his writing?
In a small office within his Edinburgh flat, using the same desk he bought in 1986. - How did Rebus end up in jail in the new book?
The previous novel ended with Rebus facing sentencing, and Rankin decided jail was the only logical outcome. - Who gives Ian Rankin the first feedback on his drafts?
His wife, Miranda, is the first to read and critique his second draft. - What inspired Rebus’s gritty, anti-authority character?
Rankin’s punk background and love for Edinburgh’s hidden corners deeply influenced Rebus’s personality and setting.
As Ian Rankin continues to craft the next gripping installment in the Rebus series, we’re left with a rare glimpse into the quiet, methodical chaos of a literary icon at work. From early morning routines in Edinburgh’s winding streets to the solitude of his writing desk, Rankin reveals that behind every twist in the tale lies a mix of discipline, doubt, and inspiration. With “Midnight and Blue” taking shape and Rebus navigating life behind bars, fans can expect a fresh, daring chapter in a story that still surprises even its creator. The fog may be thick—but Rankin, as always, keeps moving forward.
Ian Rankin: Tartan Noir is available on BBC World Service here