It is quite a three pipe problem

It is quite a three pipe problem

In the world of Sherlock Holmes, the phrase "It is quite a three pipe problem" has become synonymous with a particularly challenging and complex mystery that requires deep thought and concentration to solve. This iconic line was first uttered by Holmes himself in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's story "The Red-Headed League," and has since been immortalized as a symbol of the detective's unparalleled deductive abilities.

The phrase refers to Holmes' habit of smoking his pipe as he ponders over a case, with the implication being that a particularly difficult problem would require him to smoke three pipes before he could come to a solution. This image of Holmes sitting in his armchair, surrounded by a cloud of smoke, deep in thought as he unravels the intricacies of a case, has become an enduring image in popular culture.

What makes the phrase "It is quite a three pipe problem" so memorable is not just its association with Holmes' brilliance, but also its reflection of the meticulous and methodical approach that he takes to solving mysteries. Holmes is known for his keen powers of observation, his logical reasoning, and his ability to piece together seemingly unrelated clues to arrive at the truth. The phrase captures the essence of Holmes' investigative process, highlighting the time and effort that he puts into solving each case.