FATHER KNOX'S 10 RULES FOR DETECTIVE FICTION

FATHER KNOX (1888-1957) 

HIS 10 RULES FOR DETECTIVE FICTION

Paraphrased

1.	The criminal must be mentioned in the early in the story, but not someone who shares their thoughts with the reader.
2.	Supernatural and preternatural agencies aren't allowed.
3.	Only one secret room or passage is allowed.
4.	No undiscovered poisons may be used, or any weapon that needs a long scientific explanation.
5.	Chinamen cannot figure in the story.
6.	Accidents can't help the detective and he can't use unaccountable intuition to solve the mystery.
7.	The detective can't commit the crime.
8.	All clues the detective must be shared instantly with the reader.
9.	The Watson sidekick can't conceal his thoughts and his intelligence must be slightly below that of the average reader.
10.	Twin brothers can't appear unless the reader has been adequately prepared.