Reading: Chapters 1-4
Assignment - Deadline: Thursday, January 15
Post two separate comments to one or more of your colleagues
reacting to their postings regarding this week’s question.
Chapters 1-4
Question: A literary title provides the reader with the
first impression of what to expect in the text. What expectations does the
title - “City Primeval: High Noon in
Detroit” provide for the reader? How are those expectations confirmed in the
first four chapters of the book?
The title evoked two major impressions for me. First – “City Primeval” – strongly suggested a throwback to mythical primitive times when one acted more on impulse and instinct. Legal/ethical systems were largely absent or ineffective. To survive, “might makes right” appears more relevant than anything having to do with the use of reason. The mention of “High Noon” in the subtitle seems to place the “Primeval” reference in context for Americans. When we think of our “primitive period,” we think of the mythical “Old West” following the Civil War. Under this scenario, the man with the “fastest gun” ruled within a corrupt society.
ReplyDeleteThe book’s first four chapters confirm the expectations set up by its title. The book’s prologue details the corrupt and unethical machinations of one of the city’s judges. Men use horses as if an extension of their manhood. Behaviors are more influenced by passions, rather than intellect. Criminals have little regard for the consequences of their actions or fear of the law. The text contains references to the film, High Noon, a one-time western sheriff Wyatt Earp, and Clint Eastwood – who was known for his violent western characters. Moreover, homicide Det. Raymond Cruz was born in Texas and has Mexican ancestry.
I have to agree with your assessment. I believe that the title describes a city that is practically lawless. When the judges are corrupt, what can you expect from law enforcement and the regular citizenry? I am anxious to find out how this story plays out.
DeleteI also find it interesting that the novel is set at the time it was published in 1980. At that time, Coleman Young was in his sixth year as mayor during a period I would say were some of the most productive time of his tenure. Thus far, he has not mentioned Mayor Young (unless I missed it). I wonder if he will mention him or "the office" somewhere in the book.
DeleteDr. Anderson, I wonder if they'll discuss his 'regime' as well. All of the tales regarding Coleman Young would be very fitting to this story.
DeleteNow that I have read nearly 2/3 of the book, it looks like the author is not going to provide any specific commentary on Coleman Young. However, I think it is a bit unfair to characterize the city as he does with such a strong leader in office. These definitely were the best years of Coleman's administration.
DeleteI do agree, the title definitely reflects a throwback to more primitive legal/ethical systems. There's also a level of sexism reflected in the dialogue between the News report and Raymond Cruz. If anything - I feel the first four chapters tell the reader that this is a "no non-sense" kind of story.
ReplyDeleteYes - the display of sexism is another "ugly," but in some way realistic characteristic of the city. I would not have wanted to have been one of the pioneering women on the police force. I am sure they had a tough time. And, the judge's "lady-friend" was treated cruelly by the judge and Clement. Was she ever given a name in the story?
DeleteI believe her name was Adele Simpson.
DeleteThat chapter alone sold the entire book. I was shocked at how that whole car chase situation happened. Clement was so physical with Adele. Definitely a different time and system.
DeleteI'm not sure it was a "different time" in regards to male violence toward women. Unfortunately, too many women continue to suffer at the hands of brutal men.
DeleteThe title of the book implies a situation that would be a throwback to older times. Being a big fan of Elmore Leonard books I had expectations of a quick trigger law man on the trail of a career criminal in the midst of crime spree. So far my feelings have been confirmed. Cruz versus Clement will be a great showdown when it goes down. I was a bit thrown by the prologue regarding the Judge. It leaves me wondering what role Judge's character will play in the investigation. I do love the way Leonard uses irony in this case. A judge that everyone hates gets killed randomly. Yet, it was the Judges inherent bad character that lead to his death. Classic Leonard.
ReplyDeleteWhen I first started reading I thought this wasn't any different from current day. After clearing the fifth chapter I now know I'm wrong. While some of the events are similar, these characters are nuts. Batman is what came to mind when I got through the first chapter. Clements is like the Joker, wild and spontaneous. Cruz of course would be Batman given his "by-any-means" mentality.
DeleteThe title at first gave me the thought that this was going to be like reading a old western set in modern times. But after reading the first four chapters, the title to me refers to how Clement kills the judge and Adele Simpson on a basic whim and because he can. The book so far is very good and directly reminds me of another Leonard series. Although the prologue was a bit bland, it definitely helped set up his demise and why no one really felt sad over his death.
ReplyDeleteI think you can still say the book has a Western flavor. The conflicts of many Western usually revolve around senseless or extremely cruel acts of violence.
DeleteThe title gave me the impression the book would have a survival of the fittest, take no prisoners type of theme. The reason for the judge's killing hasn't been exposed yet, however, I assume Clement killed him for something bigger than 'just cause'. The title also gives me the impression that the cops might also be willing to do whatever's necessary to solve the case, including misleading and/or false evidence.
ReplyDeleteI agree, there is a bit of "Survivor" mentality in the book. No one seems as if they are fully enjoying life, but are merely existing.
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