Appearance vs. Reality

Where it surfaces

• The Big Bow Mystery

  The initial evidence and circumstances surrounding Constant's death may not be as they seem, setting up a central theme of deception.

• I

  Mrs. Drabdump's sense of security from Grodman's presence contrasts with the actual danger; Constant's saintly appearance may mask a darker reality.

• II

  Mrs. Drabdump's description of Constant as 'weak-headed' contrasts with his actual cheerful demeanor; Mortlake's arrest and release show the gap between suspicion and guilt.

• III

  Constant's public optimism contrasts with his private letter of despondency, and the sealed room appears impenetrable yet a murder may have occurred.

• IV

  Grodman's letter presents Constant as incapable of violence, while the public's theories often rely on superficial or absurd appearances, contrasting with the hidden reality of the crime.

• V

  Denzil pretends to have writer's cramp while Grodman suspects he is hiding something; the tension between what is said and what is true is central.

• VI

  Denzil presents himself as a poet and informant but is driven by greed; Wimp's domestic ordinariness contrasts with his detective brilliance.

• VII

  Grodman and Wimp maintain a facade of cordiality while secretly plotting against each other; Grodman's false alibi for Denzil masks his true intentions.

• VIII

  The new lodger appears to be an old gentleman but is actually Detective Wimp in disguise; the unveiling ceremony's solemnity masks the impending arrest.

• The Riot at the Unveiling

  The contrast between Constant's peaceful portrait and the violent riot underscores the theme of appearance versus reality.