Colin Dexter

Stamford, Lincolnshire, England

Born 1930 — Died 2017

Biography

Norman Colin Dexter, better known as Colin Dexter, was an acclaimed English crime writer, most famous for his Inspector Morse series of novels. Born in Stamford, Lincolnshire, in 1930, he studied Classics at Christ's College, Cambridge. After a career as a classics teacher, he moved to Oxford in 1966 to work for the University's Local Examinations Syndicate. It was in Oxford that he conceived and began writing the Inspector Morse novels, the first of which, 'Last Bus to Woodstock', was published in 1975. His intricate plots, intellectual puzzles, and the complex, often melancholic character of Detective Chief Inspector Morse, set against the backdrop of Oxford, captivated readers worldwide. The series, which spanned 13 novels and several short stories, was adapted into a highly successful television show starring John Thaw. Dexter was recognized for his significant contributions to literature, receiving numerous awards before his death in 2017.

Selected Thoughts

«It's all quite irrational, of course, the things we do for love.»

«Life was a game, and the rules kept changing, and nobody told you what the new ones were.»

«He had often mused that the human heart, for all its complexities, was still capable of surprisingly simple desires.»

Writing Style

Dexter's writing style is characterized by its intellectual depth, intricate plotting, and sophisticated prose. He masterfully crafted classic 'whodunit' mysteries, rich with red herrings, classical allusions, and cryptic clues. His narratives are deeply character-driven, exploring the psychological complexities of his protagonist, Inspector Morse, and his sidekick, Sergeant Lewis. A dry wit, meticulous attention to detail, and evocative descriptions of Oxford also define his distinctive approach.

The Secret of Annexe 3

2008

4.1

The Way Through the Woods

2011

4.1