The narrative follows Joe Pettigrew, a disillusioned man in his fifties, who grapples with the reality of his failing marriage to Gladys and the presence of her lover, Porter Green, in their home. The story opens with Joe's mundane morning routine, interrupted by the loud music and laughter of Gladys and Porter, highlighting his isolation and dissatisfaction. Joe encounters Professor Augustus Bingo, a peculiar man who offers him a mysterious substance he claims is not what it seems. This substance, which Joe later learns is a form of snuff, grants him temporary invisibility. As he navigates his newfound ability, he witnesses the intimate relationship between Gladys and Porter, leading to feelings of jealousy and resentment. Tension escalates when Joe discovers that Porter has been physically abusive towards Gladys. In a moment of rage and desperation, Joe confronts Porter, resulting in a violent altercation that ends with Joe shooting Porter after he has already killed Gladys. The aftermath of the incident sees Joe attempting to cover up the crime, but his actions draw the attention of the police. Detectives Waldman and Rehder investigate the scene, piecing together the events leading to the deaths. They suspect Joe, but he maintains his innocence, claiming he was unaware of the violence until it was too late. The detectives uncover evidence that suggests Joe could have escaped through a furnace vent, leading to further suspicion. As the investigation unfolds, Joe grapples with his guilt and the implications of his actions. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, the complexity of human relationships, and the consequences of choices made in moments of emotional turmoil. Ultimately, Joe's fate hangs in the balance as the detectives close in on the truth, and the enigmatic Professor Bingo looms in the background, representing the unpredictable nature of fate and consequence. The story culminates in a tense confrontation between Joe and the detectives, where the truth of the events is revealed, leaving Joe to confront the reality of his actions and the life he has led. The narrative concludes with a sense of ambiguity, as Joe's fate remains uncertain, reflecting the moral complexities of his choices and the impact of his relationships.
By Raymond Chandler · First published 1939 · Genre: Mystery, Noir, Thriller