" I decided to write Westerns because there was a terrific market for Westerns in the ’50s. There were a lot of pulp magazines, like ‘Dime Western’ and ’10 Story Western’ that were still being published. The better ones paid two cents a word. And I thought, ‘I like Westerns.’ "
- Elmore Leonard

In the statement, Elmore Leonard explains his decision to write Western stories during a time when there was significant demand for such narratives. He highlights how numerous pulp magazines were still operational and offered decent pay rates for writers who could craft compelling Western tales, with some of the more reputable publications offering two cents per word. Additionally, he mentions that his personal fondness for the genre played a role in this choice.

This quote also reveals an underlying truth about creative decision-making where market conditions can influence artistic choices. Leonard's statement suggests that while passion and personal interest are important drivers for any creator, practical considerations such as demand and compensation cannot be overlooked. This insight provides valuable context not only for aspiring writers but also for anyone in the creative industry who must balance their love for a subject with pragmatic business realities.

Elmore Leonard was an American author renowned for his crime and suspense novels, although he started writing Westerns due to market conditions in the 1950s. His work later evolved into gritty, realistic portrayals of contemporary America, often featuring morally ambiguous characters and sharp dialogue. Leonard's influence extends beyond literature, as his stories have been adapted into numerous films and television series.