How has Erle Stanley Gardner's Fantastic Fiction influenced modern mystery writing?

One of the great things about his fantastic fiction is the legal elements he incorporates. Since he was a lawyer himself, his stories often revolve around legal procedures and courtroom dramas. This gives a sense of authenticity to the stories. Also, his writing style is straightforward yet captivating, making it easy for readers to get hooked on the story from the very beginning. His descriptions of the settings, whether it's a courtroom or a crime scene, are detailed enough to draw the reader in and make them feel as if they are right there in the story.

Typical characters include the resourceful private investigators. They use their wits and experience to solve mysteries. Then there are the victims or their families. They are usually in distress and look to the investigators for help. There may also be some sidekick characters who assist the main detective, providing some comic relief or additional support in investigations.

One of the main themes is mystery. His stories often revolve around solving complex crimes. Another theme could be justice, as his characters strive to ensure that the right thing is done in the face of wrongdoings. Also, the element of human nature is explored, like how people react under pressure and in the midst of criminal investigations.

Definitely 'The Case of the Velvet Claws'. It was very popular as it was the first Perry Mason novel and it set the tone for the whole series. People were drawn to the character of Perry Mason right from the start.

The first Perry Mason story by Erle Stanley Gardner was 'The Case of the Velvet Claws'.

His Fantastic Fiction has had a significant impact on the genre. Firstly, his stories often break the mold in terms of plot structure, which has given other writers the courage to experiment. Secondly, his unique brand of fantasy, with its emphasis on complex characters and their relationships, has influenced how characters are developed in the genre. For example, his exploration of the psychological aspects of his characters in a fantasy setting has led to a deeper understanding of character - building in fantasy literature. Additionally, his works have contributed to the expansion of the genre's themes, making it more multifaceted and appealing to a broader audience.

One of the best is 'The Case of the Velvet Claws'. It introduced Perry Mason in a very engaging way. The mystery and the courtroom drama are well - blended.

The first Perry Mason story by Erle Stanley Gardner has several key features. Firstly, it presents Perry Mason as a very intelligent and astute lawyer. His character is immediately established as someone who can think on his feet and outwit his opponents. Secondly, the mystery in the story is quite engaging. It has twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. There are also well - drawn secondary characters that add depth to the story, like Mason's secretary who is always there to assist him in some way. The courtroom scenes, which would become a hallmark of the series, also start to take shape in this first story, showing Mason's dominance in that setting.

Rowling's use of themes like friendship and growing up in a magical context has been emulated. It has made it more acceptable for authors to deal with serious themes in a fantasy setting. Her work has also increased the visibility of female authors in the fantasy genre, and has encouraged publishers to invest more in similar works, which in turn has led to a greater diversity of voices in modern fantasy literature.

In his Fantastic Fiction, Jonasson uses a slow - burning narrative style. This has had an impact on the mystery genre as it allows for a build - up of tension and suspense over time. Instead of quickly revealing the answers, he takes the reader on a journey of discovery, which has encouraged other writers to experiment with different pacing in their mystery stories.