Blog 3: Keyes

   The obvious detective in the novel is Barton Keyes. He was mentioned early in the novel and right away we should expect that he has a big role in the event that will come. The "Detective who is able to solve crime or uncover the truth"  describes him perfectly. Automatically we are introduced to Keyes as an uptight man very deep into his work. Walter describes his personality clearly in the passage about him looking in the calendar and checking if it was this years calendar or last and so on. With that, we know he wont let anyone slide with setting up lies on getting insurance benefits, "He's a wolf on a phony claim" Walter says. Walter knew very well of this and made sure to cover his tracks so Keyes wouldn't suspect him.

   When thinking about a detective I think about a tan suited man with suspenders and a hat. The film put a great physical image in my head for Keyes. He was witty and especially the way he spoke was how I imagined; quick and to the point. Keyes is a "hard-boiled" detective I think because there isn't much compassion in his life as in a loving wife and family so he puts everything into his work and has no time for other nonsense. It's easy to read through the protagonists' perspective (Walter) and be on his side because we're sort of in his head and we become closer to his character,  but hard to cheer against him when Keyes is getting closer and closer to finding out the truth of the whole crime.

Blog Entry Two

       In the handout "Primary Characteristics and conventions of Film Noir: Themes and styles" from Filmsite.org,  There were quite a few comments about the deceitful Femme Fatale whom manipulate men. They are described as "gorgeous, unloving, desperate women." Upon meeting Mrs. Nirdlinger, Walter already notices her features and commenting on her figure. Walter is also a male protagonist narrating his own story has made it clear to the readers to expect a Film Noir type story.

       Phyllis is automatically labeled as the Femme fatale in the novel, and I was sure of it when her and Walter met for the second meeting as she wasn't in her blue pajamas anymore but rather in more appealing clothing. Walter notices by quoting " I wasn't the only one that knew about that shape, she knew of it plenty." It was amusing to me how she dressed more provocatively this time knowing that Walter would arrive. Phyllis wanted something from Walter and knew just how to get it. The story thickens when Phyllis convinces Walter into plotting her husbands death a faux train accident. The article mentions on how the femme fatale "destructively goads [the protagonist] into committing murder or some other crime of passion." Although it is wrong of Walter to agree to the murder, I can't help but feel sorry for him.