Luck and Superstition

Where it surfaces

• III

  The drunken man George boasts of his lucky winnings at the races, and Jess's chance meeting with him feels like a fateful turning point.

• II

  Jess's initial luck in getting a lift to Everwell is sharply contrasted by the discovery that he has been robbed of all his money, underscoring the capricious nature of fortune.

• Chapter III

  Jess's encounter with the drunken sportsman and his subsequent loss of the money reflects the role of chance and misfortune.

• The Dinner at The Royal Standard

  The group decides to change the show's name to 'change the luck,' reflecting superstitious beliefs common among performers.

• II

  Jess reflects bitterly on his luck, feeling that despite doing nothing wrong, he is now a wanted man.

• IV

  Oakroyd's fear of being pursued by police turns out to be unfounded, emphasizing the role of chance and misperception in his journey.

• Inigo Jumps Out of a Train and Finds Himself in Love

  Mrs. Joe Brundit's story about a superstitious actor and the group's discussion of luck reflect the theme's presence in the chapter.

• I

  Mrs. Joe tells fortunes and recounts a story about a scoffer who was fired, highlighting the troupe's belief in luck.

• II

  Mrs. Brundit mentions 'the Luck is in' and 'touch wood,' highlighting the role of luck in their improved circumstances.

• A Wind in the Triangle

  Mr. Ridvers bitterly attributes his cinema's poor returns to the pierrots' luck, while Susie feels luck has passed her by, underscoring the theme of fortune.

• Chapter I

  Mr. Ridvers repeatedly laments his bad luck and the pierrot show's good fortune, highlighting the theme of luck.

• Susie's Birthday and the Great Chance

  Susie's anxiety about Monte Mortimer's visit and her fear of 'making a mess of it' reflect the role of chance in a performer's career.

• III

  The Inspector notes it was 'very lucky' no lives were lost, and Mr. Oakroyd reflects on the daftness of the evening, hinting at fortune's role.

• IV

  Mrs. Joe reflects on her prophetic feelings about Susie's chance, and the group's fortunes hinge on a wire and a manager's offer.