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I have been thinking a lot about this question. However, I
feel we first need to identify what new trends typify
contemporary noir and then proceed to name writers who
contributed to those elements.
In answer to the first question it seems to me that
contemporary noir is more conscious of and innovative in
using language and style. Secondly, reflecting the general
trend in contemporary crime writing, more emphasis is put on
character. This does not, should not, mean neglect of plot.
Thirdly, there is a richness in description that suggests the
difference between classic black and white movies and
technicolor. Fourthly, contemporary noir is not quite as
bleak as classic noir permitting to quote Woody Allen "a tiny
flame flickering in an immense void."
With these characteristics in mind I would suggest the
following writers as innovative:
Style/language: Ken Bruen, Megan Abbott
Character/description: Lehane's Mystic River, arguably the
finest contemporary crime novel.
Flickering light: We find this in one of Lehane's three main
characters (The cop) but I tend to associate this more with
Connelly's Bosch novels.
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