Arnold Bennett, an English author, left an indelible mark on literature with his intricate portrayals of provincial and cosmopolitan life. His extensive oeuvre includes a diverse range of genres, yet he is most celebrated for his realistic novels that delve into human nature and society. Though his detective fiction works did not make him famous, Bennett's influence on the genre was notable, both through his writing and his insightful critiques.

Bennett's Foray into Detective Fiction

Arnold Bennett’s early career as an editor exposed him to numerous detective stories, sowing the seeds for his interest in the genre. Among the influences on his detective fiction were the works of Émile Gaboriau. This influence is evident in Bennett's own novels, such as The Grand Babylon Hotel, which weave elements of mystery and detection into their narrative fabric. Bennett’s interest in crime and mystery was not limited to novels; he collaborated briefly with H.G. Wells on an unproduced play titled "The Crime," although superstitions about on-stage corpses led to its abandonment.

The Loot of Cities

In 1903, Bennett published a series of stories in The Windsor Magazine, later compiled into the novel The Loot of Cities. This collection features Cecil Thorold, a detective and millionaire whose adventures take him across Europe, infusing the narrative with intrigue and romance. Although not deemed one of Bennett's finest works, it showcases his descriptive prowess and narrative style, making it a collector’s item for fans of obscure detective fiction.

Subsequent Ventures into Mystery

Following The Loot of Cities, Bennett continued to explore themes of mystery and crime in novels like Hugo and The City of Pleasure. Hugo, published in 1906, draws from the style of Gaboriau, utilizing coincidence and mood to propel its plot. Meanwhile, The City of Pleasure (1907) delves into the operations of a London amusement park, with its narrative revolving around suspense, danger, and crime.

Later Works and Detective Elements

Bennett’s later novels, such as The Price of Love and The Strange Vanguard, continued to incorporate elements of detective fiction. The Price of Love centers on the mystery of missing money, while The Strange Vanguard features a kidnapping, blending light fiction with detective intrigue. Bennett’s knack for quickly producing engaging short stories is evident in pieces like “Murder,” a satirical take on detective methods reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes, published in Liberty magazine.

Despite not being remembered primarily for his work in detective fiction, Bennett’s contributions were significant. His essays, particularly in Arnold Bennett: The Evening Standard Years, “Books and Persons,” 1926-1931, offer valuable insights into style and narrative, influencing later mystery writers like John Dickson Carr. Bennett’s belief in the detective story as a serious literary form encouraged many budding writers of the genre.

Influence of Flaubert and Realism

Arnold Bennett’s highest literary ambition was to become the English equivalent of Gustave Flaubert, whose novel Madame Bovary captivated him. Bennett sought to emulate Flaubert’s meticulous detail and godlike command of social reality and individuality. This aspiration is reflected in his attempt to faithfully document English provincial life in novels set around the five towns of Staffordshire, his fictionalized version of his hometown, Burslem.

Bennett’s novels are renowned for their anthropological completeness, detailing everything from local politics to domestic interiors. His first novel, A Man from the North, encapsulates themes of aspiration and failure, reflecting Bennett's own journey from the confines of Burslem to the wider world of London.

The Old Wives’ Tale

The Old Wives’ Tale , Bennett’s masterpiece, intertwines the lives of two sisters, Constance and Sophia, in a narrative that balances provincial and...