Eddie Coyle: A Boston Tale of Crime and Conversation

Eddie Fingers: A Small-Time Thief with Big Problems

Eddie Coyle, known as Eddie Fingers, isn't your typical criminal mastermind. He's a small-time Boston thief with a knack for getting into trouble. His fingers were once crushed in a desk drawer by an unhappy client, and he's always on the lookout for the next big score. But Eddie's luck is running thin, and his so-called friends are well aware of it.

Sharp, Street-Smart Dialogue

The real charm of The Friends of Eddie Coyle lies in its sharp, street-smart dialogue. George V. Higgins, a former assistant U.S. attorney, had a talent for capturing the rhythm and energy of Boston's underworld. The conversations in the book are lively and full of character, painting a vivid picture of the city's gritty side.

Eddie's Interactions with Dave Foley

Eddie's interactions with Dave Foley, a federal agent, are a prime example. Eddie tries to strike a deal, hoping Foley can put in a good word for him. But Eddie's not the only one with secrets. Jackie Brown, a gunrunner, and Jimmy Scalisi and Artie Van, who are planning a series of bold bank robberies, all have their own agendas.

Higgins' Unique Writing Style

Higgins, who also worked as a journalist and professor, had a unique ability to bring the criminal underworld to life. His writing turns everyday criminal slang into something poetic. Eddie's admiration for a gun he wants to sell, comparing it to the Sumner Tunnel, is just one example.

A Glimpse into Boston's Landscape

The book also offers a glimpse into Boston's landscape. From the Red Coach Grille in Braintree to a Bruins game (pronounced "Broons"), the city's atmosphere is palpable. The 1973 movie adaptation, starring Robert Mitchum as Eddie, captured this sense of place well. But the novel goes beyond a simple crime story. It's a deep dive into the lives of ordinary criminals, each trying to navigate their way through a world that's quickly closing in on them.