* His own childhood: Pullman has spoken about how his own childhood experiences, including his upbringing in a strict religious household and his love of mythology and fantasy, deeply influenced his writing. He aimed to create stories that spoke to his own experiences and the things that mattered to him.
* His love of literature: Pullman is a voracious reader and has been influenced by a wide range of authors, including C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and William Golding. He admired their ability to create compelling worlds and characters that resonated with readers.
* His passion for storytelling: Pullman has stated that he believes storytelling is a fundamental human need, and he strives to create stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. He believes that stories can help us understand ourselves and the world around us.
* His desire to challenge traditional narratives: Pullman is not afraid to tackle difficult themes in his writing, and he often challenges conventional wisdom and religious beliefs. He believes that literature can be a powerful tool for social change and that stories can help us to see the world in new ways.
In addition to these factors, Pullman has also been inspired by specific events in his life, such as his time teaching English and his travels around the world. He has said that he sees his writing as a way to connect with people and to share his own experiences and perspectives.