Selected Letters : Book Review

"Selected Letters" by Raymond Chandler is a captivating compilation of the renowned American author's correspondence. With letters spanning over five decades, from 1909 to 1959, this collection offers readers a unique and intimate insight into Chandler's life, creative process, and literary career. Through his letters, we get to witness Chandler's sharp wit, intelligence, occasional vulnerable moments, and gain a deeper understanding of the man behind iconic characters like Philip Marlowe.

Chandler's letters showcase his keen observational skills and his remarkable awareness of the world around him. His descriptive language and vivid anecdotes bring to life the era in which he lived, offering readers a glimpse into the social and political landscape of the time. From sharing his thoughts on current events to discussing his views on literature and film, Chandler's letters are a treasure trove of knowledge and opinions that captivate and enlighten.

Moreover, "Selected Letters" provides a behind-the-scenes look at Chandler's writing process. In his letters, he delves into discussions about plot and character development, shares his struggles with writer's block, and showcases his unwavering dedication to crafting intricate and atmospheric narratives. Aspiring writers and fans of Chandler's work will find invaluable inspiration in these glimpses into his creative mind.

In addition to his career, Chandler's personal life is also revealed through these letters. He candidly talks about his relationships, battles with alcoholism, and the challenges he faced throughout his life. These glimpses into his personal struggles paint a more humane portrait of Chandler and offer readers a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.

Overall, "Selected Letters" is a must-read for fans of Raymond Chandler and the crime fiction genre. This collection not only provides a fascinating insight into the mind and life of this iconic author, but it also offers valuable insights into the writing process and the literary landscape of the early 20th century. Chandler's wit, intelligence, and candidness make this collection an engrossing and enlightening read that will captivate readers from start to finish.

What are readers saying?

Selected Letters by Raymond Chandler offers readers a captivating glimpse into the personal and professional life of the renowned author. The book has garnered positive reviews, with readers praising Chandler's wit, insight, and the intimate details he shares in his letters.

Reviewers appreciate how Selected Letters provides fresh perspectives on Chandler's work and deepens their understanding of his writing. They enjoy seeing the thought process behind his famous novels and the challenges he faced as a writer. Chandler's ability to articulate his ideas and observations in his letters is widely commended, and readers find these correspondences as compelling as his published works.

The honesty and rawness of Chandler's letters resonate with readers. They appreciate his candidness about his personal struggles, including his battle with alcoholism and his relationships. Reviewers find these letters to be both poignant and illuminating, shedding light on the man behind the mystery novels.

Furthermore, readers find Selected Letters to be a valuable resource for fans and writers alike. Chandler's advice, insights, and discussions about the craft of writing are highly regarded. His letters showcase his dedication to his craft and his willingness to share his knowledge with others, making this book an invaluable source of inspiration for aspiring writers.

However, there are a few reviewers who mention that this collection may not appeal to everyone. Some readers found the letters to be overly long and repetitive, suggesting that more editing could have condensed the content. Additionally, a handful of readers felt that the book lacked context, and having more commentary or background information would have enhanced their reading experience.

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