A miniature red lectern topped with a brass bugle and a wooden ruler, with red cloth hanging behind.

Original artwork, not a still

Norris

Are you attempting to tell me my duties sir?

— The Big Sleep ‧ 1946

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

Norris bristles at being lectured about his own job. The question is stiff and offended, guarding his role from outside advice. It's formal indignation in a single sentence, standing on professional dignity as he sees it.

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