What is Chandler's main point in his essay, "The Simple Art of Murder?" Does he view detective stories favorably? Does he think the genre is important?

Discuss the main characters' sense of justice. Is it really justice, or is it simply a form of vigilantism? None of the characters make the attempt to include the authorities, even the ones who are authorities. Why is this so?

Why does Delaguerra decide to let Belle Marr go even though he knows she killed her husband? Why does she offer to turn herself in?

Is Walter an alcoholic? How does the amount that he drinks seem to effect his relationship with Ellen and ability to make judgements overall?

Many of the villains, or "bad guys," have similar traits. Think of the villain you remember the most from this collection and list three things that made him (or...