Meaning: The quote "Thanks for the information about what we call business" by Dashiell Hammett is a concise and enigmatic statement that reflects the author's distinctive style. Dashiell Hammett was an influential American author of hard-boiled detective fiction, best known for his iconic characters such as Sam Spade and the Continental Op. His writing is characterized by its terse and direct language, as well as its gritty portrayal of crime and corruption in urban settings.

In this particular quote, Hammett's use of the phrase "what we call business" suggests a certain level of detachment or cynicism towards the concept of business. The inclusion of "what we call" implies a certain skepticism or irony, as if the speaker is questioning the true nature of business or casting doubt on its conventional understanding. This ambiguity is typical of Hammett's writing, as he often employed subtle and indirect language to convey deeper meanings and themes.

One possible interpretation of this quote is that it reflects Hammett's view of business as a realm fraught with deception, manipulation, and moral ambiguity. Throughout his works, Hammett frequently explored themes of corruption and moral compromise, depicting a world where individuals are driven by greed, power, and self-interest. In this context, the phrase "what we call business" could be seen as a sardonic commentary on the dubious practices and ethical compromises that are often associated with the business world.

It is also worth noting that Hammett himself had firsthand experience with the darker side of business, having worked as a detective for the Pinkerton National Detective Agency before becoming a writer. His experiences in this line of work provided him with a deep understanding of the seedy underbelly of society, which he skillfully translated into his literary works. As a result, his portrayal of business and its practitioners is often colored by a sense of disillusionment and suspicion.

Furthermore, the brevity of the quote itself is characteristic of Hammett's writing style, which eschewed elaborate prose in favor of succinct, hard-hitting language. This economy of words, combined with the underlying complexity of the message, is a hallmark of Hammett's approach to storytelling. By packing layers of meaning into a seemingly simple statement, Hammett invites readers to engage with his work on a deeper level, challenging them to unravel the subtleties of his narrative and thematic intentions.

In conclusion, Dashiell Hammett's quote "Thanks for the information about what we call business" encapsulates the author's incisive and cryptic approach to storytelling. Through this enigmatic statement, Hammett offers a glimpse into his perspective on the world of business, infusing it with skepticism, irony, and a keen awareness of its moral complexities. As a master of hard-boiled detective fiction, Hammett's writing continues to resonate with readers due to its evocative language, compelling characters, and insightful observations on the human condition.