Philosophy of Mind: Explorations (1, 2)

Author: Van Dine
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-11-01
Features: Mystery novels are an intellectual game, but more like a competition. The author must play this game fairly with the readers. He must use strategy and tricks while maintaining a certain degree of honesty, never going overboard to the extent of cheating like playing bridge. He must win through wit, using clever yet honest design to pique the readers' interest. Therefore, writing mystery novels has its clear rules, though they are unwritten, they are highly binding. Every respected or self-respecting novel author must adhere to these rules.
When the body of Evan Benson was discovered in the morning on June 14th, I was having breakfast with him in his apartment at Phileas Vance. The shock and excitement caused by this murder have not entirely subsided even today. I often share lunch and dinner with Vance, but breakfast is a rare occurrence, as he usually wakes up late and is not accustomed to talking to anyone before lunch. The reason for our meeting in the morning was related to business—at least it appeared to be. The day before, Vance had visited the Keller Gallery in the afternoon to see the pre-opening exhibition of Cézanne watercolors in Valade's collection, and he was particularly moved by several works, so he invited me for breakfast to share some insights about buying the paintings.