<<...but almost everything I've read by Chandler has
stayed with me much more vividly, even the lesser
efforts.>>
Indeed, Chandler makes each scene vivid by simile and careful
linguistic underlining. His choice of words could not be more
careful. He must have written and rewritten
endlessly...
Hammett did not underline nearly as much. His writing was
more organic, less episodic. Whereas Chandler was a master of
the unexpected, Hammett has fewer surprises. His prose,
especially in narration, has an internal rhythm that seems
just right. That's my definition of great prose.
A comparison of, say, Chandler's _Bay City Blues_ and
Hammett's _The Gutting of Couffignal_ makes these points
obvious. I mention these stories because each shows its
author at his best.
Best,
MrT
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