Maybe it’s the lack of whiskey causing the memory loss? Maybe these books are meant to be read with whiskey, and then it helps them be remembered? I know that drinking while studying meant you could take a test better–as long as you were also drunk when taking the test. These seem releated.

Though, on the flip side “one big mess of tough-guys, used-up dames, and double crosses” could easily be the Hard Case tag line. You should sell it to them pally.

I’m not a whiskey man so next time I order coffee I’m going to shout (peevishly) “I don’t want nothin’ in it!” at whoever is pouring.