Discover the shadowy realms of Detective Noir Fiction with course leaders Sam VanNest and Will Dennehy. This three-week course will immerse you in the gritty worlds crafted by two iconic authors, Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler.

Week 1: The Glass Key – Unlocking the Secrets of Hammett’s Masterpiece Dive headfirst into the enigmatic world of Dashiell Hammett as we dissect his seminal work, “The Glass Key.” Unravel the intricate web of mystery and deception as we explore the novel’s characters, plot dynamics, and Hammett’s signature hard boiled style. Discover the nuances that set “The Glass Key” apart as a classic of Detective Noir Fiction and gain insights into its influence on the genre.

Week 2: The Long Goodbye – Chandler’s Noir Opus                                               Shift gears in week two to Raymond Chandler’s magnum opus, “The Long Goodbye.” Traverse the mean streets of Chandler’s Los Angeles and delve into the complex character of Philip Marlowe. Uncover the brilliance behind Chandler’s narrative techniques and his contribution to shaping the noir landscape. Explore the thematic depth and emotional resonance that elevates “The Long Goodbye” to the pantheon of noir classics.

Week 3: Comparative Analysis – Breaking the Mold                                             Our final week takes us into the heart of the genre, where we compare and contrast the groundbreaking works of Hammett and Chandler. Analyze how these two masters both adhered to and defied conventions, leaving an indelible mark on Detective Noir Fiction. Engage in lively discussions about the evolution of the genre and the enduring impact of these literary giants.

What to Expect:  Expect to sharpen your analytical skills as you are transported into the captivating world of Detective Noir Fiction. Unravel mysteries, dissect narratives, and emerge with a profound understanding of the genre’s timeless allure. 

Feedback from past courses with Sam:

“Sam was outstanding at facilitating conversation about, and comprehension of, “The Sun Also Rises.”  Very interesting program – l look forward to more classes with Sam!”

“Sam is a good discussion leader, and we had participation from just about everyone who took the course.”

“Sam did a great job of opening up a novel that didn’t seem, at first, to have such depths. The class was full of people with good and varied points to make; Sam wove them together well and kept the discussion moving.”

IN PERSON course at the Easton Family YMCA (no recording) | 3 sessions | Thursdays | May 2, 9, 16 | 1 – 2:30 pm | $40