The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain follows Frank Chambers, a drifter who arrives at a diner near Glendale, California, and begins an affair with Cora, the wife of the diner’s owner, Nick. Hoping to be together, Frank and Cora plot Nick's murder. Their plan initially fails, but they later succeed, leading to escalating consequences and a tragic conclusion.

James M. Cain's The Postman Always Rings Twice is praised for its taut writing and compelling plot, showcasing raw, intense emotion and psychological depth. Critics commend its noir elements and vivid characters but note that some may find its themes bleak and its morality ambiguous. Overall, it's a gripping, fast-paced read that's a significant contribution to American crime fiction.

Fans of gritty crime fiction and dark romance, akin to readers of The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett or Double Indemnity by James M. Cain, will relish The Postman Always Rings Twice. Ideal for those who appreciate morally complex characters, intense atmosphere, and suspenseful, fast-paced plots.

Dark / Suspenseful / Mysterious / Unnerving / Gritty

- The Postman Always Rings Twice was banned in Boston when it was first published in 1934 due to its explicit content and themes, which were considered too risqué for the time.
- The novel has been adapted into multiple films worldwide, including a notable 1981 version starring Jack Nicholson and Jessica Lange.
- James M. Cain's novel was a significant influence on the noir genre, with its dark and fatalistic themes being echoed in countless works that followed.

**Frank Chambers**  
A 24-year-old drifter who narrates the story, characterized by his tendency to wander and get into trouble, and notable for his ability to evade serious consequences.

**Cora Papadakis**  
The wife of Nick Papadakis, who is discontent with her marriage and seeks excitement and fame, often attracting the attention and actions of others.

**Nick “The Greek” Papadakis**  
The trusting owner of a diner called the Twin Oaks Tavern, who is unaware of the tensions and schemes involving his wife and Frank.

**Katz**  
A crafty lawyer with a leathery face and a black moustache, known for his wily speech and rivalry with the district attorney, Kyle Sackett.

**Kyle Sackett**  
A big, bald district attorney with a breezy manner, recognized for his intelligence and dangerous demeanor, and as Katz's competitive counterpart.

James M. Cain

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Postman Always Rings Twice reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Postman Always Rings Twice | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Postman Always Rings Twice and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Postman Always Rings Twice Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-8

The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapters 7-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-15

The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 16 The Postman Always Rings Twice Chapter 16 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Postman Always Rings Twice Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Postman Always Rings Twice Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Postman Always Rings Twice Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Postman Always Rings Twice Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Postman Always Rings Twice Essay Topics

The Postman Always Rings Twice

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Postman Always Rings Twice?

Reading Age

Book Details