ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Pulp noir

Pulp noir is a type of story that usually takes place in the 1920s-1950s and involves tough, cynical characters who are often involved in shady or illegal activities.

Imagine that you are playing make-believe with your friends, and you decide that you are going to be a detective. You put on a fedora hat and grab a magnifying glass, and you start to solve imaginary crimes. That's kind of what pulp noir is like, but for grown-ups.

Pulp noir stories often have a dark and gritty atmosphere, with lots of violence, sex, and danger. They are usually set in big cities like New York or Los Angeles, and the main character is often a private detective or a criminal who is trying to survive in a brutal and corrupt world.

Think of it like a grown-up version of a comic book or a detective movie, but with a lot more blood and swearing.

So if you like stories with tough guys, fast cars, and dangerous women, then you might enjoy reading some pulp noir. But be warned: these stories can be pretty intense, so it's best to wait until you're a little older to check them out.
Related topics others have asked about: