All ab't Holmes!!!!. Review on Adventures Of Sherlock Holmes, The - Arthur Conan Doyle

Well, writing about someone as renowned as Sherlock Holmes seems to me an exercise in futility.

But for the benefit of those unfortunate few who are yet to be introduced to this singular English gentleman, I’ll, most willingly, do the honours. My own introduction to the Mr. Holmes was not really a very pleasant one. For one fine day, my Dad gave me his book to read. Here I have a confession to make, though I took the book so as not to offend my well read Dad out of filial love & respect. But after going through a story it dawned upon me that I just did myself a big favour!!

In a world where facts denigrate to fiction in no time, Mr. Holmes brings us a welcome change. For how many real life characters can vouch the emotional bond that this fictional character shares with his fans? Infact once when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle killed Holmes in one of his stories so as to enable himself to devote his time to other literary pursuits. The public cried “murder”. Few zealots even send threatening mails to Sir Doyle stating that Holmes would not go unavenged!!!! Others were more polite, they pleaded with him to bring to life their beloved hero. Need I add Sir Doyle finally yielded?

Later, writing to his mother Sir Doyle mentioned that killing Holmes was rather an act of self defense then murder. For had Sir Doyle not killed him, he (Holmes) would have certainly killed him (read his literary talent).

Here it is imperative to add that as is characteristic of Holmes, he proved a true friend to his creator. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was neck deep in debt when he started writing “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”. Mr. Holmes paid the debt on his behalf, so to speak.

221B Baker Street was not always there, but since this was the residence of Mr. Holmes & Dr. Watson, the Government made it in their honour & now it serves as a museum for Sherlock Holmes & his memories.

Unlike other works of fiction we find Mr. Holmes has his share of human limitations. And he does NOT always succeed in all the cases he undertakes (For ex. Five Orange Pips) .But even after being a professional detective he is emotionally related to all his clients. Perhaps that makes him more endeared to his fans all over the globe. For given all the liberty of creative expression Sir Doyle resists the temptation of creating a ‘superman’ in the form of Holmes is indeed praiseworthy.

A must read for everyone who want to refine his observation skills, mannerism & English language.

It helped me enormously & I’m sure it will help you too.

BON VOYAGE!