The High Window

Historical Context and Significance

Raymond Chandler's novel "The High Window," published in 1942, is the third book featuring private detective Philip Marlowe. This work solidified Chandler's reputation as a master of the noir genre and significantly influenced the development of detective literature. Chandler employed intricate plots and deep psychological character development, which was an innovative approach in the genre. "The High Window" also reflects the social and cultural aspects of 1940s America, including class differences and moral dilemmas. The book contributed to popularizing the image of the private detective as a cynical yet principled hero, which later became a classic archetype in literature and film.