# Fate and Destiny in Suspense

> Theme guide for Suspense by Joseph Conrad.

The theme of destiny recurs, with characters like Madame de Montevesso invoking 'Destiny' as a force shaping lives, while the unfinished nature of the novel itself suggests that fate remains unresolved and unknowable.

## Where it surfaces

- [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/chapters/part-i-i): The conversation touches on luck and fate, with the man stating 'Luck is a great thing. It is the only thing worth having on one's side,' reflecting on the role of chance in historical events.
- [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/chapters/part-ii-iii): Cosmo whispers about the fate of individual souls, and the Marquis speaks of the fate of nations hanging in the balance.
- [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/chapters/part-ii-vi): The conversation revolves around the concept of Destiny, with Madame de Montevesso murmuring the word 'Destiny' when asked what has done it, and Cosmo reflecting on how Destiny works quickly.
- [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/chapters/part-iii-ii): Cosmo's vision of Madame de Montevesso feels like a prophetic premonition, suggesting a fated connection.
- [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/chapters/part-iv-i): Cosmo and Attilio discuss the influence of stars on meetings and partings, and Cosmo reflects on the loneliness of those marked by fate.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/themes/fate_and_destiny
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/suspense_se/themes