Did Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Ever Regret Creating Sherlock Holmes?

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the celebrated author and medical doctor, is best known for the creation of Sherlock Holmes, a character so enduring that his shadow looms large over the landscape of literature. The question of whether Sir Arthur ever regretted his decision to bring this character to life, and specifically his controversial decision to kill him off, is a fascinating one.

The Moment of Change: The Final Problem

The culmination of Doyle's decision to end Holmes came in what is known as The Final Problem. In this storyline, Holmes confronts Moriarty in the Reichenbach Falls, leading to both characters plunging to their deaths. Doyle's intention was to finally put an end to the series, believing that Sherlock Holmes had taken over his life in an almost symbolic sense.

The Grief of Fans: An Undeniable Impact

When Holmes was reported as deceased, the reaction of his fans was one of profound grief. Many readers of the time, and even modern-day enthusiasts, felt a deep sadness at the loss of their beloved detective. This outpouring of sentiment is evidence of the profound impact of Sherlock Holmes on popular culture, indicating that, despite his initial intentions, Doyle may have felt a level of regret over his decision to kill off such a beloved character.

Altered Course of Doyle's Career

After The Final Problem, Doyle's work with Sherlock Holmes overshadowed his other literary endeavors. Several authors have argued that if he had not written the Holmes stories, Doyle's career might have taken a different, perhaps less famous, course.

The Decision to Return Sherlock Holmes

However, the decision to end the series was not the end. The public's demand was strong, and under both positive and negative pressures, Doyle relented and wrote additional stories featuring Sherlock Holmes. These successive appearances of the detective are a testament to the enduring popularity of the character and the role it played in Doyle's life and career.

Consequences and Reflection

The return of Sherlock Holmes also brought about significant changes in Doyle's personal life and work. While some have suggested that he grew to dislike the character over time, the reality is more complex. Holmes became a larger part of Doyle's legacy and continued to inspire both the author and his readers.

Spiritual Inspiration and Legacy

It is worth noting that Doyle himself was a spiritualist, and the character of Sherlock Holmes might have become a symbol of something greater to him. This spiritual connection adds another layer to the story of creation and legacy. In a broader sense, the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes can be seen as a reflection of Doyle's deeper motivations and the lasting impact of his work.

In conclusion, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's decision to create and ultimately return Sherlock Holmes was a pivotal moment in the world of literature. The enduring legacy of these characters continues to inspire new works and captivate audiences. While we may never know the full depth of Doyle's emotions, the continued fascination with Sherlock Holmes attests to the powerful role that the author's creation has played in shaping the literary world.

For more on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, his Sherlock Holmes, and the enduring regret in literature, explore the vast body of works connecting the dots between author and character.