In Cold Blood - Detailed Notes

Overview of Characters

  • Richard "Dick" Hickok

    • Plans a tour that involves criminal activities
    • Acquires Perry Smith's assistance
    • On parole from the Kansas State Penitentiary
    • Has stolen his father's 12-gauge shotgun
    • Fabricates a story to justify visiting Perry's sister in Fort Scott

  • Perry Smith

    • Thoughtful and reserved
    • Engages in treasure hunting expeditions
    • Produces maps related to these expeditions
    • Reflects on his encounters with Dick

Setting and Atmosphere

  • Travel Begins

    • Stop for supplies: rubber gloves, rope, blank stockings
    • Significant stop at Phillips 66 gas station around midnight before heading to Holcomb

  • Description of Kansas Landscape

    • Comparisons to Greek mythology (i.e., Homeric style)
    • Landscape features: flat land, extensive views, cattle herds, grain elevators likened to Greek temples
    • Foreshadows importance of the upcoming tragedy

Thematic Elements

  • Universal Rumination on Violence

    • The events described in the book have universal themes of violence and the human spirit
    • Reference to crime as a timeless aspect of the human condition

  • Character Analysis of Mr. Clutter

    • The head of the Clutter family, comparable to a tragic hero
    • Rigid moral standards and self-righteousness serve as flaws leading to demise
    • Respects high standards for his family and employees, but thrives in providing a safety net for them

Interpersonal Dynamics

  • Complex Relationship between Dick and Perry
    • Dick's easy-going nature contrasts Perry's caution
    • Perry admires Dick's masculinity while being preoccupied with emotional scars
    • References to Perry's personal struggles (e.g., medical condition) contrast with Dick's self-assured persona

Narrative Context

  • Culmination of Themes
    • The rigid lifestyle of the Clutters makes them targets for Dick and Perry
    • This scheme results in the psychological violence portrayed later in the book, leading to the death of the Clutter family

Symbolism and Foreshadowing

  • Behavioral Symbolism
    • Perry’s physical injuries and Dick’s perception of masculinity reflect deeper emotional struggles
    • Choices and behaviors of both characters serve as commentary on their respective lifestyles and eventual decisions