People | Emma Donoghue Discusses Writing ‘The Paris Express’ (Exclusive)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Emma-Donoghue-paris-express-031725-d537476f4eac48a29ed531eb87193955.jpg)
Emma Donoghue, the acclaimed author, shares insights about her latest novel ‘The Paris Express’ in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. The historical fiction novel is inspired by the gripping 1985 train derailment at Paris’ Montparnasse station, a moment captured in iconic photographs. Donoghue, known for her debut work ‘Stir-Fry’ released in 1994, has since delved into various projects across screen and stage.
In her conversation with PEOPLE, the 55-year-old author expressed her enthusiasm for exploring new storytelling avenues. Donoghue jokingly mentioned, “I think getting bored would be the great danger, because, unlike many authors, I have not spent decades doing a real job, and then turned to writing with all my built-up wisdom. This is all I’ve ever done.”
‘The Paris Express’ eloquently unfolds on a train brimming with a diverse ensemble of characters from Russia, Ireland, Pennsylvania, Cambodia, and beyond. The novel teases intricate storylines: from Members of Parliament rushing back to Paris for a crucial vote to a young anarchist’s ominous plans. Donoghue reflects on the real-life event, stating, “Quite a few people took photographs, and most of them are anonymous. People rushed to the smoking, dusty site of the accident.”
The author highlighted a striking photograph that captured her attention, showcasing the train from a unique angle, embodying what Donoghue describes as “an extraordinary image of high-tech-gone-wrong.” This visual anomaly sparked deeper questions for the author, pondering the mingling of power and fallibility in machines. Donoghue mused, “How could this happen in the middle of a city?”
Throughout her illustrious career, Donoghue has ventured into various forms of prose, including novels, short stories, plays, and screenplays. Her versatility shines through adaptations like ‘The Wonder,’ a 2022 period drama based on her 2016 novel, and the critically acclaimed ‘Room,’ which she adapted into a screenplay. The author finds joy in the diverse experiences each storytelling medium offers, emphasizing the unique challenges and rewards of each.
Donoghue candidly shared her creative process, stating, “For instance, it would be very rare to write a film alone… You really have to keep consulting lots of different people to get the right to make it.” Despite the allure of the glamorous film industry, she finds solace in the solitude of writing fiction, where she feels most in control of her narrative.
Exploring multiple perspectives aboard ‘The Paris Express,’ Donoghue embraced the nuances of character interactions on a shared journey. Delving into the intricacies of individual observations and connections, she found fiction to be the ideal canvas for unraveling diverse narratives. The novel was released on March 18, 2025, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of storytelling.
Donoghue’s passion for storytelling across mediums shines through in ‘The Paris Express,’ offering readers a compelling narrative woven through diverse characters and enthralling plotlines. As fans eagerly anticipate her latest work, the author’s commitment to captivating storytelling continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.