Meaning: Raymond Chandler, an influential American-British writer of crime fiction, made a thought-provoking statement about mystery novels in the quote, "At least half the mystery novels published violate the law that the solution, once revealed, must seem to be inevitable." This quote sheds light on the essential element of inevitability in mystery novels and highlights the challenge that many writers face in adhering to this principle.

In the world of mystery novels, the concept of inevitability is crucial to the success of a story. It refers to the idea that once the solution to the mystery is revealed, it should feel logical, reasonable, and almost predestined. The reader should be able to look back on the clues and events presented throughout the story and see how they inexorably led to the solution. In other words, the revelation should make perfect sense in hindsight, and the reader should feel satisfied that the outcome was the only possible conclusion.

Chandler's assertion that at least half of mystery novels violate this law suggests that achieving true inevitability in a mystery plot is no easy feat. Many writers may struggle to craft a story in which the solution feels both surprising and inevitable. This challenge is compounded by the need for authors to balance the element of surprise with the requirement for a logical and satisfying resolution.

Moreover, the quote implies that a significant number of mystery novels fail to deliver on the promise of inevitability, leaving readers feeling that the solution was contrived or arbitrary. This can lead to a sense of disappointment and frustration, as the carefully laid clues and plot developments may not effectively support the final revelation.

Chandler's own contributions to the genre of crime fiction, particularly through his iconic private detective character Philip Marlowe, demonstrate his deep understanding of the complexities involved in crafting a compelling mystery. His novels, including "The Big Sleep" and "Farewell, My Lovely," are celebrated for their intricate plots, vivid characters, and the skillful interplay of clues and revelations.

It is important to note that Chandler's quote does not dismiss the value of surprise in mystery novels. In fact, the element of unexpected twists and turns is often what captivates readers and keeps them engaged throughout the story. However, the challenge lies in seamlessly integrating this surprise with the requirement for inevitability in the resolution. Achieving this balance is a hallmark of masterful storytelling in the mystery genre.

In conclusion, Raymond Chandler's quote encapsulates the fundamental principle of inevitability in mystery novels and highlights the difficulty that many writers face in adhering to this principle. Crafting a mystery plot that is both surprising and inevitable is a delicate and intricate task that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the genre's conventions. By acknowledging the significance of inevitability in mystery fiction, writers can strive to create narratives that not only thrill and surprise but also satisfy the reader's need for a logical and inevitable resolution.