Philip Marlowe perfume, anyone? Raymond Chandler’s estate revives its hero, for better or worse

The Philip Marlowe character, created by Raymond Chandler, has evolved through modern adaptations and continuations commissioned by the Chandler Estate. Joe Ide was asked by the estate to write an original novel featuring Marlowe in the present day, resulting in "The Goodbye Coast." Other authors, like Denise Mina, have also contributed to this revival with novels such as "The Second Murderer." 

The stewardship of the Chandler Estate has passed through generations, now led by Alexander Greene, who continues to commission new works while addressing concerns about outdated themes in Chandler's originals. Critics like Kim Cooper express apprehension about potentially overshadowing Chandler's original works with new interpretations but acknowledge the value of expanding the Marlowe universe.

For more information see Nate Rogers “Philip Marlowe perfume, anyone? Raymond Chandler’s estate revives its hero, for better or worse”, The Los Angeles Times, February 15, 2024.

Special thanks to Joel C. Dobris (Professor of Law, UC Davis School of Law) for bringing this article to my attention.