This fictional character created by Raymond Chandler, first appeared in The Big Sleep published in 1939. He is quietly contemplative and philosophical and enjoys chess and poetry. While he is not afraid to risk physical harm, he does not dish out violence merely to settle scores. Who is it?

Philip Marlowe is the iconic detective created by Raymond Chandler, first appearing in The Big Sleep (1939). The description matches Marlowe perfectly - he's contemplative, plays chess, quotes poetry, and uses violence only when necessary. Sam Spade and The Continental Op are Dashiell Hammett characters, while John Dalmas is from Ross Macdonald's works.