John Banville Adopts Pen Name, Famous Protagonist to Reboot Chandler's Iconic Crime Series (March 21, 2014)

The transcript features a discussion with John Bainville, who writes under the pseudonym Benjamin Black. Bainville talks about his admiration for Raymond Chandler and his approach to writing a new Philip Marlowe novel, 'The Black Eyed Blonde.' He reflects on Chandler's impact on crime fiction and literature, emphasizing the importance of engaging the audience. Bainville also shares insights into his writing process, highlighting the differences between writing as Benjamin Black and as himself, and how he channels Chandler's style while adding his own touch.

Who is the author of 'The Black Eyed Blonde'?

• Raymond Chandler

• John Bainville

• Philip Marlowe

• Benjamin Black

What did Raymond Chandler aim to achieve with his crime fiction?

• To focus solely on plot twists

• To elevate crime fiction to literature

• To write for a niche audience

• To write exclusively for the literate

How did John Bainville approach writing 'The Black Eyed Blonde'?

• By modernizing Marlowe's character

• By focusing on a new protagonist

• By staying true to Chandler's style

• By setting the story in New York

What is a key characteristic of Philip Marlowe according to Bainville?

• His loneliness and bravery

• His large family

• His cheerful disposition

• His wealth and social status

What is a major difference in Bainville's writing as Benjamin Black?

• He writes more slowly

• He focuses on historical fiction

• He writes more spontaneously

• He uses a different language

Why does Bainville find writing as Benjamin Black different?

• It involves a more spontaneous style

• It allows for more detailed research

• It requires a slower pace

• It focuses on non-fiction

What metaphor does Bainville use to describe writing as Benjamin Black?

• A marathon runner

• A tightrope walker

• A chess player

• A mountain climber