Still Life

Chief Inspector Armand Gamache is the kind, wise, and gentle but firm detective who oversees the investigation of Jane’s death. Midway through a career spent finding murderers, “violent death still surprised him” (2). Though he is a keen observer and logical thinker, he centers his investigation on the people and underlying emotions surrounding the murder. His somewhat “fanciful” outlook contrasts with that of Beauvoir, whom Gamache describes as “reason itself.” Gamache takes pleasure in simple things, such as a clock showing the same digit in each space.

Gamache’s investigation is the force that drives forward each plot and subplot throughout the novel. Even detours that turn out to be irrelevant to the case provide opportunities for thematic material. As an established character who reappears in 16 sequels as of 2021, Gamache does not undergo a major transformation in the course of the novel, but he enters new territory in at least two ways. First, his capacity as a mentor is stretched to the limit when he takes Agent Nichol under his wing. After what Beauvoir considers too long a grace period, he dismisses her, showing that Gamache’s mild manner is matched by a stern and decisive disposition. Second, Gamache develops a fondness for Three Pines and its residents that will lead him to return often in coming years.