The fascinating world of casinos has long been a favourite subject for writers. Whether it involves capturing the electric atmosphere around gaming tables or delving into the deep motivations of gamblers, these authors have managed to convey the very essence of this unique universe. In this article, we will review some of the most iconic literary works set against the backdrop of casinos and the world of gambling.
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Classic literature on casinos
- La Roulette, by Albert Camus: This short story is a philosophical reflection on life and death through the game of roulette. The main character, Jacques Cormery, confronts his existence, grappling with chance and the laws of probability.
- L’Enjeu (The Stake), by Agatha Christie: This detective novel features Hercule Poirot, tasked with solving a murder case in a Riviera casino. Suspense and intrigue abound in this story, where nothing is left to chance.
- Casino Royale, by Ian Fleming: The first instalment of the famous James Bond series, this novel tells the story of the iconic British spy as he faces off against a dangerous Soviet agent during a baccarat game in a casino. The book sparked a literary and cinematic saga, making Fleming’s hero a symbolic figure of the casino world.
Contemporary works inspired by casinos
- Les Lois du Hasard (The Laws of Chance), by Antoine Chainas: This noir novel follows a disillusioned cop entangled in a corruption case involving casinos and the mafia. The author masterfully portrays the dark and unforgiving world of gambling.
- La Dame de Pique (The Queen of Spades), by Éric Chevillard: A fantastical story that delves into the labyrinth of a casino where reality constantly shifts, and games are rigged with incomprehensible rules. The tale explores the boundaries between reality and madness.
- Poker menteur (Liar’s Poker), by Michael Connelly: In this gripping thriller, journalist Jack McEvoy is faced with a serial killer operating in Las Vegas casinos, leaving mutilated victims behind as part of a macabre poker ritual. The investigation delves into the dark arts of gambling and psychological manipulation.
Famous authors and casinos: a reciprocal fascination
Many renowned writers have been avid casino enthusiasts, allowing their fascination with this world to seep into their works. Among them are:
- Ernest Hemingway: The American author particularly enjoyed horse racing and poker. He even wrote several short stories featuring card games, such as “Fifty Grand” and “The Gambler, The Nun and The Radio”.
- Fyodor Dostoevsky: The Russian writer was a compulsive gambler, particularly fond of roulette. This personal struggle inspired his novel “The Gambler”, where he explores his own experiences with casinos and addiction.
- Charles Bukowski: The American writer, a passionate horse racing bettor, humorously recounts his adventures in Los Angeles gambling circles in several works, including “Pulp” and “Hollywood”.
Literature on game strategies and great players
Some books focus on the technical aspects of gambling and the strategies employed by professional players to maximize their winnings. Notable works include:
- L’art de gagner à tous les jeux (The Art of Winning at All Games), by Philibert Géraud: This 18th-century treatise presents various techniques used at the time to cheat at cards and other games of chance.
- La Stratégie du Blackjack (Blackjack Strategy), by Edward O. Thorp: Considered the first book to reveal a mathematical method to beat the house at blackjack, it revolutionized the game and inspired generations of professional gamblers and writers.
- Joueur d’échecs (The Chess Player), by Stefan Zweig: This captivating short story follows a chess champion facing a formidable opponent during a game aboard an ocean liner, exploring the psychological tension and rivalry between two brilliant minds.
In conclusion, casinos and the world of gambling have always fascinated writers, offering a rich source of philosophical reflection, mystery, and danger. Whether as a backdrop for crime stories or as a lens to explore the human psyche, these captivating worlds continue to inspire tales that immerse readers in action and intrigue.
