The brief was simple, to re-design the Penguin book cover of Raymond Chandler's novel, The Big Sleep.
This cover attempts to encapsulate the sinister, sticky and uncomfortable atmosphere of the novel along with the ever present rain and gloominess. The condensation on the glass resembles the humidity in the greenhouse at the beginning. The see through nature of the glass also implies the notion of layers within the novel. The symbolism of the orchid refers to its initial beauty and elegance, however there is an underlying rot and putrid smell - referring to the decay that has encompassed the Sternwood family. The photograph also demonstrates the General’s wealth - being that in those days only the wealthy could afford heated greenhouses. The veins in the petals allude to the bloodshed throughout the novel. The block style type has been juxtaposed against the soft, natural appearance of the orchid.
