Dashiell Hammett
Dashiell Hammett: A Master of Hard-Boiled Fiction
Full Name and Common Aliases
Samuel Dashiell Hammett, commonly known as Dashiell Hammett, was a towering figure in American literature. Often referred to simply as "Dash" by friends and admirers, Hammett's name has become synonymous with the hard-boiled detective genre.
Birth and Death Dates
Dashiell Hammett was born on May 27, 1894, and passed away on January 10, 1961. His life spanned a period of significant social and cultural change in the United States, which is reflected in his work.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Hammett was an American author and screenwriter. He is best known for his contributions to detective fiction, a genre he helped to define and popularize. His work as a novelist and short story writer has left an indelible mark on American literature.
Early Life and Background
Born in St. Mary's County, Maryland, Hammett grew up in Philadelphia and Baltimore. His family faced financial difficulties, which led him to leave school at the age of 13 to help support them. Hammett's early life was marked by a series of odd jobs, but it was his work as a detective for the Pinkerton National Detective Agency that would profoundly influence his writing. His experiences with the agency provided him with a wealth of material and insight into the world of crime and investigation, which he later channeled into his fiction.
Major Accomplishments
Dashiell Hammett's major accomplishments lie in his pioneering work in the detective fiction genre. He is credited with creating the archetype of the hard-boiled detective, a character that is tough, cynical, and operates in a morally ambiguous world. Hammett's writing style, characterized by its crisp dialogue and gritty realism, set a new standard for crime fiction. His ability to weave complex plots with rich character development earned him critical acclaim and a lasting place in literary history.
Notable Works or Actions
Hammett's most notable works include "The Maltese Falcon," "The Thin Man," and "Red Harvest." "The Maltese Falcon," published in 1930, is perhaps his most famous novel, introducing readers to the iconic detective Sam Spade. The novel's intricate plot and memorable characters have made it a classic of American literature. "The Thin Man," published in 1934, introduced the charming detective couple Nick and Nora Charles, whose witty banter and sophisticated style captivated audiences. These works, along with his numerous short stories, have been adapted into successful films, further cementing Hammett's influence on both literature and cinema.
Impact and Legacy
Dashiell Hammett's impact on the detective genre is immeasurable. He transformed the genre from its roots in the genteel drawing rooms of traditional mysteries to the gritty streets of urban America. His portrayal of detectives as flawed, complex individuals resonated with readers and inspired countless writers who followed. Hammett's influence extends beyond literature; his work has shaped the portrayal of detectives in film and television, contributing to the enduring popularity of the genre.
Despite facing personal challenges, including health issues and political persecution during the McCarthy era, Hammett's legacy endures. His commitment to his craft and his ability to capture the essence of human nature in his writing have ensured his place as a literary icon.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Dashiell Hammett is widely quoted and remembered for his sharp wit, incisive observations, and the timeless quality of his prose. His ability to distill complex human emotions and situations into pithy, memorable lines has made his work a rich source of quotes. Hammett's characters, particularly his detectives, often deliver lines that reflect a deep understanding of the human condition, resonating with readers across generations.
Hammett's work continues to be studied and celebrated for its innovation and impact on the detective genre. His ability to blend entertainment with social commentary has ensured that his stories remain relevant and engaging. As a result, Dashiell Hammett is not only remembered as a master storyteller but also as a keen observer of the world around him, whose words continue to inspire and provoke thought.
Quotes by Dashiell Hammett
Dashiell Hammett's insights on:
Murder doesn’t round out anybody’s life except the murdered’s and sometimes the murderer’s.
I told him about the letter Wynant had sent his sister. He said: “He writes a lot of people, don’t he?
Nora stopped drinking to ask: “Did Wynant really steal it?” “Tch, tch, tch,” I said. “This is Christmas Eve: try to think good of your fellow man.
Presently she said: “It’s none of my business, Nick, but what do people think of me?” “You’re like everybody else: some people like you, some people don’t, and some have no feeling about it one way or the other.
Your playmates sent him?” I asked, nodding at the dead man. “I only talked to him with this,” he said, patting the automatic on the bed, “but I reckon they did.” “How did it happen?” “It happened simple enough. I heard the door opening, and I switched on the light, and there he was, and I shot him, and there he is.
I don’t,” he said, “and that’s a fact. I just can’t size them up at all. This Mrs. Jorgensen, now, what is she?” “A blonde.