To get back to Lehane. The major point of my original
contribution is that we needed to first determine what is new
in noir writing and then decide who contributed to these
trends. Admittedly my list of new noir characteristics was
sketchy. However, I would suggest that writing a more
multi-layered, multi-voiced coming of age novel with a noir
plot is different from noir writing of say 50 years ago.
While I would agree with Brian that Hammett and Chandler had
it all (plot, character, setting, voice) I would suggest that
the hardboiled writing of their time was more plot/puzzle
driven than contemporary noir writing. I believe there's
beauty in sparseness, power in singularity. These noir trends
from the past continue in different forms today. But also a
more expansive style is being written. And I am afraid
contrivance is a sin practiced by almost all fiction writers
in all genres. I would suggest a contrivance "works" if it
allows for the development of character. It doesn't when it
stops the reader is his/her tracks as clearly some sections
of Mystic River stopped some members of this list.
Tim
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