Anthony Phillips

Gary Phillips is an American writer, editor, and activist, born in Los Angeles in 1955. His extensive body of work includes over two dozen books, primarily in the crime fiction genre, with a notable focus on Los Angeles settings. Phillips is recognized for his hard-boiled detective novels, such as the Ivan Monk series, and has also ventured into graphic novels and edited several acclaimed anthologies. His writing often explores themes rooted in his experiences and observations of urban life, social issues, and the complexities of the American cultural landscape.

Phillips's career began after attending creative writing classes, leading to the creation of his recurring character, the private investigator Ivan Monk. His debut novel, "Violent Spring," featuring Monk, is considered a classic of crime fiction and a significant work about Los Angeles. Beyond his own fiction, Phillips has been an active editor, curating anthologies that delve into various subgenres and themes, including "The Obama Inheritance: Fifteen Stories of Conspiracy Noir." His background as a community activist, involved in fighting police brutality and racial tensions, informs the social commentary present in much of his work. He has also contributed to television as a writer and story editor for the FX series "Snowfall."

Gary Phillips is widely recognized for his contributions to crime fiction, particularly within the hard-boiled tradition. His novels, such as "Violent Spring," are celebrated for their authentic portrayal of Los Angeles and its underbelly. Phillips describes his own writing style as "hard-boiled tales with dashes of Chester Himes and Ashley Montague," indicating a blend of gritty realism with distinct literary influences. His work often incorporates social commentary, reflecting his belief that detective fiction can serve as a vehicle for examining societal issues, cultural diversity, and the complexities of American life. He has also explored the comic book medium, viewing it as an early passion, and has written for prominent publishers in the field.

Phillips's background as a community activist significantly informs his literary output. Having worked against police brutality and for organizations aimed at reducing racial tensions, these experiences lend a grounded authenticity to his narratives. He was involved with the Coalition Against Police Abuse and helped found the MultiCultural Collaborative in the wake of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. His upbringing in Los Angeles, influenced by stories his father told him and his early immersion in pulp fiction and comic books, shaped his artistic direction. Influences he has cited include writers and artists such as Chester Himes, Rod Serling, Jack Kirby, and comedian Richard Pryor, highlighting a diverse range of inspirations.

Beyond his own creative writing, Gary Phillips has established a significant reputation as an editor of anthologies. He has curated collections that explore specific themes and subgenres, often with a noir or speculative edge. "The Obama Inheritance: Fifteen Stories of Conspiracy Noir" is a notable example, where each story engages with a conspiracy theory surrounding President Barack Obama. His anthology "The Darker Mask: Heroes from the Shadows" offered alternative perspectives on superheroes, moving beyond traditional archetypes. These editorial projects demonstrate his engagement with contemporary cultural dialogues and his commitment to showcasing diverse voices and narratives within speculative and crime fiction.

“hard-boiled tales with dashes of Chester Himes and Ashley Montague.”

“terrific”

“firmed rooted”

“Riff on it, take it apart and turn it on its head, and give the reader a thrill ride of weirdo, noirish, pulpy goodness.”

“I started out decades ago wanting to be a comic book artist and writer. I wanted to work for Marvel so much that I would have sold my sister if I had one.”