The solution, once revealed, must seem to have been inevitable. At least half of all the mystery novels published violate this law.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Chandler argues mystery novels often fail because solutions should seem inevitable in hindsight.
- In plain terms
- Good mysteries make the solution feel obvious after the reveal.
- What can you take from it?
- Plot solutions should feel inevitable when looking back.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes a twist satisfying?
- Is surprise better than logic?
Another view
Some readers prefer surprise over inevitability.
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