Holmes. Everyone calls him Holmes

When the words “Sherlock Holmes” fall upon our ears our mind immediately pictures a tall, lean but rather pale British man dressed in a peculiar cap, a long loose coat who has a pipe in his mouth and pure magic in his mind. A man bestowed with unwavering logic and clear reason who knows London at the back of his hand.  Those who read Holmes’ novels of Doyle know that these epithets do not do justice to his personality. And for those who do not read his novels, well, what are you even waiting for?

The prototype for the modern mastermind detective, Holmes first appeared in Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet, published in Beeton’s Christmas Annual of 1887. As the world’s first and only “consulting detective,” he pursued criminals throughout Victorian and Edwardian London the south of England and continental Europe. 

This “high functioning sociopath” as he calls himself solves the most baffling cases by one of a kind observation, reasoning but very little people skills.  This infamous resident of 212 Baker Street does not believe in the concept of emotions. Thus he comes off as rude and often blunt. But this however does not cause any reduction in the interest level of his readers. That’s how good this snobbish little man is. Believe me.

Other characters in this series are Dr. John Watson, Holmes’ chronicler on cases, Mrs. Hudson, his tolerant Landlady and Inspector Greg Lestrade of New Scotland Yard whom he consults on cases. 

There have been numerous adaptations of this legend’s adventures including in the form of TV shows as well as movies. But honestly, there is nothing like the bliss you get from reading a Holmes’ adventure bound in the confines of a book.

I’m going to let these quotes by him inspire you now to pick up a Conan Doyle book and delve into the mysterious yet fascinating world of Holmes.

“What’s the point of being clever if you cannot prove it?”

“I hate to see you cry, but I love to see you try”

And lastly,

“To a great mind, nothing is little”

                                                                                                                               - Rtr. Rima Jain