The Man Who Killed Himself

The Man Who Killed Himself is a 1967 crime novel by British author Julian Symons that blends elements of comedy with psychological suspense. The story centers on Arthur Brownjohn, a middle-aged man trapped in an oppressive marriage to his wealthy wife. To escape his stifling existence, Brownjohn creates an alternate identity - a charismatic persona through which he experiences a taste of freedom and excitement. His double life becomes increasingly complex as he navigates between his two distinct personalities. The novel follows Brownjohn's transformation and eventual plot to commit murder while disguised as his alter ego, leading to a web of deception and mounting tension. This darkly humorous work explores themes of identity, marriage, and the lengths to which a person might go to break free from social constraints. The dual-identity premise serves as a vehicle for examining the facades people construct and the price of living inauthentic lives.

Readers describe this as a dark psychological thriller that focuses more on character study than traditional mystery elements. The book maintains steady tension while exploring themes of identity and duality. Readers appreciate: - The clever structure and pacing - Complex character development - Unexpected plot turns - The blend of mystery and psychological elements - Dark humor throughout Common criticisms: - Some plot points require suspension of disbelief - The ending feels rushed to some readers - Side characters lack depth Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (121 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (43 reviews) Sample reader comments: "A smart twist on the standard murder plot that keeps you guessing" - Goodreads reviewer "The psychological aspects outweigh the mystery" - Amazon reviewer "Characters' motivations don't always ring true" - LibraryThing review Note: Limited review data exists online for this older title compared to contemporary books.

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith A con artist assumes another man's identity and commits murder to maintain his deception, creating a twisted exploration of reinvention and false personas.

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson A respected doctor creates a second identity to indulge his darker impulses, leading to a struggle between his dual natures that spirals into violence.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt A group of classics students construct elaborate facades to hide a murder, resulting in psychological tension as their carefully crafted identities begin to crack.

The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain A drifter plots with a woman to murder her husband, constructing false appearances and alibis that trap them in their own deceptions.

Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood A convicted murderess presents different versions of herself to those who interview her, weaving a complex narrative about identity and truth in crime.

☞ Julian Symons received the prestigious Crime Writers' Association's Cartier Diamond Dagger for lifetime achievement in 1990, marking him as one of crime fiction's most respected authors. ☞ The novel's 1960s London setting coincided with significant social changes in British society, including shifting attitudes toward marriage and divorce, which the book cleverly reflects. ☞ Symons wrote over 30 crime novels during his career, but was also a distinguished poet, literary critic, and social historian - bringing these varied influences into his fiction writing. ☞ The theme of dual identities in the novel draws inspiration from classic works like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but updates the concept for modern audiences with its focus on marital and social pressures. ☞ Beyond his fiction, Symons wrote "Bloody Murder" (1972), considered one of the definitive critical studies of crime fiction, demonstrating his deep understanding of the genre he worked in.