In Cold Blood (Part 1): Pages 36-44

Summary

The script covers a reading from 'In Cold Blood,' focusing on two characters, Perry and Dick, as they prepare for a crime, discussing gloves, stockings, and rope for the operation. It then shifts perspective to Kenyon, a young boy working on projects in his home, reflecting on relationships, personal losses, and his solitary nature. The script further delves into Perry's psychological complexities, his relationship with an ex-cellmate, and his inner turmoil, as highlighted by a thoughtful letter about his character flaws and emotional struggles.

Takeaways

• 📖 The reading session begins with a continuation of 'In Cold Blood' from page 36, focusing on the story of Perry and Dick's criminal plans.
• 🚗 Perry and Dick shop for items needed for their crime, including gloves and rope, showcasing their different approaches to planning.
• 🧠 Perry expresses doubt about Dick's confidence that no witnesses will be left, revealing tension and uncertainty between the two.
• 🔧 The narrative switches to Kenyon, a character working on a hope chest for his sister in the basement, highlighting his carpentry skills.
• 🏡 Kenyon and his sister Nancy take pride in their efforts to brighten up the basement, turning it into a den for friends and family.
• 🐕 The scene shows Kenyon’s bond with his sister and the family pets, demonstrating a contrast to Perry and Dick’s darker activities.
• 🏞️ Kenyon reflects on his adventures with his friend Bob, including coyote chasing and rabbit hunting, portraying his rural Kansas lifestyle.
• 💔 Kenyon feels distant from Bob as Bob has started dating, marking a shift in their friendship as Kenyon remains focused on hobbies and independence.
• 💀 Perry's relationship with Dick is explored further, emphasizing Perry's deep insecurities, superstitions, and inner conflicts regarding the murder plan.
• 📜 Perry reflects on his past friendship with Willie Jay, a former inmate, whose psychological insights still haunt Perry, deepening his inner turmoil.

Q & A

What is the context of the scene being read from *In Cold Blood*?

The scene describes Dick and Perry, two criminals, planning a robbery and murder. They stop in Emporia, Kansas to purchase supplies, including gloves and rope, which are essential for their plan. The narrative also shifts to Kenyon Clutter, one of the eventual murder victims, who is working on carpentry in the basement of his home.

Why does Perry become irritated with Dick during their conversation?

Perry becomes irritated because Dick repeatedly insists that there will be no witnesses to their crime, which Perry finds naive. Perry believes that unforeseen circumstances, or 'the ineffable,' can happen and that it's foolish to think there won't be any witnesses.

Why is Perry interested in buying black stockings from a nun?

Perry suggests buying black stockings from a nun because he assumes that nuns would have them readily available. However, Perry also believes nuns and anything related to them are bad luck, which makes the situation ironic.

What personal philosophy does Perry hold regarding fate and his current actions?

Perry believes that his current actions are dictated by fate, not personal desire. He feels that fate has arranged the situation, and despite not wanting to be involved, he accepts his role in the crime as inevitable.

What is the significance of Willie-Jay in Perry’s life?

Willie-Jay is Perry’s only real friend and a former cellmate. Willie-Jay believed in Perry's potential for redemption and tried to lead him toward spiritual salvation. Perry admired Willie-Jay’s intelligence and saw him as someone who truly understood him, despite Perry’s lack of belief in God.

How does Kenyon Clutter's personality differ from his father’s?

Kenyon is described as sensitive and reserved, traits he shares with his mother, Bonnie, rather than his father, Herb Clutter. He is depicted as a thoughtful and introspective boy, more interested in solitary activities like carpentry and inventions than socializing or sports.

Why has the friendship between Kenyon and Bob Jones changed recently?

The friendship between Kenyon and Bob has changed because Bob has started dating a girl, leaving Kenyon feeling somewhat left out. Kenyon, being a year younger and uninterested in romantic relationships, finds it difficult to relate to Bob’s new focus on girls.

What is the significance of the mahogany hope chest Kenyon is working on?

Kenyon is building a mahogany hope chest as a wedding gift for his sister, Beverly. The chest symbolizes Kenyon’s craftsmanship and his desire to contribute something meaningful to his sister’s future life.

How does Kenyon feel about his horse, Skeeter?

Kenyon is deeply attached to his horse, Skeeter, who died of heart failure while being ridden. Even a year after the horse's death, Kenyon continues to mourn him, despite his father’s promise to give him another horse.

What does Willie-Jay's letter to Perry suggest about Perry’s inner struggles?

Willie-Jay’s letter highlights Perry’s emotional instability and inner conflicts. He describes Perry as a man of extreme passion who is torn between self-expression and self-destruction. Willie-Jay warns that unless Perry learns to control his emotional outbursts and his resentment towards others, these flaws will ultimately defeat him.