Chandler Before Marlowe

Matthew J. Bruccoli, editor. First edition, stated second printing. Columbia, S.C: University of South Carolina Press, 1973. Both unclipped dust jacket and hardcover are in Near Fine condition. No writing or markings found in the book, 109 pp. 

Discover the lesser-known literary beginnings of one of America’s greatest crime writers in Chandler Before Marlowe, a fascinating collection of Raymond Chandler’s early prose and poetry—written long before the creation of his iconic detective Philip Marlowe. Edited by renowned literary scholar Matthew J. Bruccoli, this 1973 second printing showcases Chandler’s evolution as a writer, offering rare insights into his voice, themes, and influences during his formative years (1908–1912).

This near fine copy is clean and tight in its binding, with no markings. A key title for Chandler collectors, noir historians, and fans of 20th-century American literature. Bruccoli’s extensive introduction and notes offer essential context, making this more than a collection—it’s a vital literary artifact.

Perfect for:

• Chandler collectors

• Crime fiction scholars

• Fans of literary history and early 20th-century American literature

There was a limited printing of this book in July 1973 and this the second printing was published in that same  month and year.