In the latest instalment of the podcast “Only Murders In My Mind,” hosts Carol Bissett, Liz Hedgecock, and (in absentia due to illness) Mike Jackson, unravel not just fictional mysteries, but the very fabric of mystery writing itself. This episode, a delightful blend of casual chat and deep dive into detective fiction’s golden age, discusses Ronald Knox’s “Ten Commandments of Detection.” The hosts’ analysis provides not only entertainment but an insightful look into the evolution of mystery writing.
The episode opens with a warm, if not slightly missing piece, greeting to Mike, setting a tone of camaraderie and informality that invites listeners into the conversation as if joining friends in a cosy living room. The discussion quickly turns to Ronald Knox, a pivotal figure in the early 20th century detective fiction scene. Knox’s “Ten Commandments” were essentially a set of guidelines intended to ensure fairness and logical structuring in detective stories, ensuring that the reader could engage with the mystery on equal footing with the detective.
Carol and Liz explore these commandments with a light touch, their dialogue interspersed with personal anecdotes about their current reading habits, which charmingly illustrates their absolute immersion in the world of literature. This personal touch adds layers to the episode, showing how deeply the hosts are influenced by their own literary consumption, from middle-grade adventures to non-fiction books about printmaking and map-making.
The meat of the episode, however, lies in their detailed examination of each commandment. They approach each rule with a critical eye, discussing its relevance and application in both historical and contemporary contexts. This part of the podcast is particularly enlightening as it reveals how the genre has both adhered to and diverged from these once-strict rules. For instance, the rule against supernatural elements in detective stories sparks a conversation about the inclusion of magical elements in modern mysteries, which both hosts find delightful and refreshing.
The dialogue is engaging, with Carol and Liz questioning whether each commandment still holds water. They debate the necessity of the detective’s intellectual superiority over the sidekick (poor Watson!), the implausibility of secret passages, and the unfair advantage of unknown poisons and untraceable weapons in solving fictional crimes. Their discussion is not just an academic exercise but a playful exploration of what makes a story gripping and fair to the reader.
Listeners are treated to a deep dive into how these foundational rules shaped the mysteries of the past and how contemporary authors might either embrace or reject these standards to create compelling, modern narratives. The hosts’ perspectives are informed by their experiences as writers and readers, providing a nuanced understanding of the genre’s evolution.
As the episode closes, the warmth and enthusiasm of the hosts shine through. They remind us that the heart of good detective fiction—whether adhering to Knox’s commandments or breaking new ground—is its ability to challenge and satisfy the reader. This episode of “Only Murders In My Mind” is a must-listen for both mystery aficionados and aspiring writers alike, as it not only entertains but educates on the fine art of crafting engaging mysteries.
Only Murders In My Mind 