The Conjure Man Dies: A Mystery Tale of Dark Harlem

Fisher’s extensive knowledge of biology and human anatomy plays a central role in the medical analysis and forensics Dr. Archer uses in the novel. Fisher earned his BA and MA degrees from Brown University in 1919 and 1920, respectively. He then attended Howard Medical School, graduating with honors in 1924. He became a radiologist and began research on the use of ultraviolet rays to treat viruses. He died from intestinal cancer in 1934 at age 37. It is believed that Fisher’s experimentation with ultraviolet rays contributed to his death.

In the novel, Dr. Archer’s phenomenal scientific knowledge is essential to Detective Dart’ solving the murder case. Dr. Archer gives detailed explanations of serums in blood tests, blood typing, and different serums’ ability to manipulate blood samples in the form of “agglutination” in Chapter 18. Furthermore, Fisher displays his knowledge of biology and forensics in Dr. Archer’s explanation of the killer’s ability to copy Jinx’s thumbprint using powders and pastes in Chapter 22. Fisher’s knowledge of science also allows him to write believable explanations of Frimbo’s biological and technological techniques that reflect the character’s proficiency in the natural sciences.

However, it is not only Fisher’s scientific background that shapes the novel’s plot.