Chandler's The Big Sleep Review, Chs. 4-8

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Questions and Answers

What about the woman in the bookstore seems out of place for a person of her work?

She had long thighs and walked with a certain something...

How does Marlowe describe the woman in the bookstore's knowledge of books?

She knew as much about books as I knew about running a flea circus.

What details show Marlowe that the 'tall, hungry-looking bird' is acting suspicious?

He placed a wrapped parcel on the desk, showed the blonde something, walked on the balls of his feet, and gave a sharp glance.

What does Marlowe discover from tailing the bird?

He had ditched it. I parted the branches of the third cypress. I drew out a wrapped book. Signup and view all the answers

What clues convinced Marlowe that he had chosen the right bookstore and clerk for his next step? (Select two quotes: one about the store and one about the clerk)

[clerk] 'Nobody would. There isn't one.' Signup and view all the answers

What does the woman in the second bookstore say that makes Marlowe tell her she is very observant?

In his early forties, I should judge. Medium height, fattish. Would weigh about a hundred sixty pounds... Signup and view all the answers

What racket has Marlowe begun to discover?

A lending library of elaborate smut. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of people are involved in Gieger's racket?

Very nice cars stopped in front, and very nice looking people went in and out with wrapped parcels. They were not all men. Signup and view all the answers

Who went into and out of Gieger's bookstore between 4:00 and 5:15?

A tall and very good-looking kid in a jerkin came out...and came back walking. Signup and view all the answers

Several important events happen at 7:20 that Marlowe doesn't completely understand yet—list at least four.

A dead body Signup and view all the answers

What was unusual about the front room in Geiger's house?

...strips of Chinese embroidery and Chinese and Japanese prints...cordite...ether. Signup and view all the answers

What was unusual about Carmen when Marlowe found her in Geiger's house?

She was sitting very straight... She wasn't wearing anything else. Signup and view all the answers

How does Marlowe explain the series of important, but then mysterious, events in chapter 6?

The flash bulb was the sheet of lightning... The crazy scream was the doped and naked girl's reaction... [the footsteps were of] the lad who had gone down the back steps. Signup and view all the answers

What does Carmen say to Marlowe, and what does it mean?

Gugutoterell. Signup and view all the answers

What does Marlowe discover while searching the house?

The camera was there alright, set inside [the statue], but there was no plate holder... blue leather book... writing in code. Signup and view all the answers

What does Marlowe hope the General's doing when he returns Carmen?

The General's asleep, I hope. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Marlowe say he didn't need a cab?

I'm not here, you're just seeing things. Signup and view all the answers

What was unusual about Geiger's dead body when Marlowe returned to Laverne Terrace?

Geiger's body was gone. Signup and view all the answers

How was one room in Geiger's house interestingly different from the rest?

It was a hard, bare masculine bedroom. Signup and view all the answers

How heavy are dead men?

Dead men are heavier than broken hearts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 4 Insights

The woman in the bookstore has an unexpected physique, described as having "long thighs" and an intriguing gait.
Marlowe criticizes her book knowledge, comparing it to his ignorance of circus operations.
The "tall, hungry-looking bird" exhibits suspicious behavior, such as placing a parcel on the desk and taking furtive glances.
Tailing the suspicious individual reveals a hidden wrapped book in the cypress branches.

Chapter 5 Developments

Marlowe confirms his choice of bookstore through the clerk's dismissive remark about other stores and the chaotic, book-filled ambiance.
The second bookstore clerk accurately deduces details about a man based on physical attributes, impressing Marlowe with her keen observance.
Marlowe uncovers a scheme involving a "lending library of elaborate smut."

Chapter 6 Revelations

Attractive individuals arrive at Gieger’s establishment, highlighting the involvement of upscale clientele in Gieger's activities.
A striking young boy is observed entering and exiting Gieger’s bookstore, hinting at clandestine dealings.
At 7:20, significant but confusing events unfold, including a scream, gunshots, and a body being discovered.

Chapter 7 Observations

Gieger's home contains unusual decor, featuring Asian prints alongside scents of chemicals, creating a jarring atmosphere.
Carmen is found sitting upright without clothing, adding to the house's mysterious aura.
Marlowe attempts to make sense of the previous chapter’s chaotic events, linking them to flash photography and a frantic scream related to Carmen.
Carmen utters the cryptic word “Gugutoterell,” leaving Marlowe puzzled.
During his search, Marlowe finds a concealed camera and a coded blue leather book, indicating secretive activities.

Chapter 8 Reflections

Marlowe wishes the General is asleep upon returning Carmen, noting the unsettling nature of his situation.
He rejects the need for a cab, suggesting a disconnection from reality.
Upon re-entering Geiger's residence, Marlowe finds Geiger's corpse has mysteriously vanished.
One bedroom within Geiger’s house stands out for its stark and masculine decor, contrasting with the rest of the locale.
Marlowe's musings reveal a profound truth: "Dead men are heavier than broken hearts," emphasizing the weight of loss.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts and descriptions from chapters 4 to 8 of Chandler's 'The Big Sleep'. Prepare yourself with flashcards that delve into character insights and thematic elements. Ideal for students looking to deepen their understanding of the text.