The Lone Wolf · Question
How does The Lone Wolf develop the theme of Fate and Chance?
Answer
The Lone Wolf by Louis Joseph Vance develops Fate and Chance across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Lanyard frequently reflects on luck and gambling, both literally at the roulette table and metaphorically in his criminal career, acknowledging that his success depends on the 'blindly impartial casts of Chance' and that his run of good fortune must eventually end.
Lanyard's return is driven by impulse and a chance taxi skid, leading him to change his destination to Troyon's.
Lanyard reflects on his luck as a gambler, considering that a run of success must eventually end, and wonders if De Morbihan's identification was a warning.
Lanyard's discovery of the resemblance in the mirror and the hypodermic syringe turn the tables on the Pack.
Evidence in the book
- Return
Lanyard's return is driven by impulse and a chance taxi skid, leading him to change his destination to Troyon's.
- A Stratagem
Lanyard reflects on his luck as a gambler, considering that a run of success must eventually end, and wonders if De Morbihan's identification was a warning.
- Turn About
Lanyard's discovery of the resemblance in the mirror and the hypodermic syringe turn the tables on the Pack.
- XVII: The Forlorn Hope
Lanyard's carefully laid plans are undone by Lucia's sudden disappearance, leaving his future uncertain.
- Wings of the Morning
The uncertain outcome of the flight, the unpredictable timing of the pursuit, and the narrow escape from gunfire highlight the role of chance.
- The Flying Death
The random trajectory of bullets, the destruction of the barograph, and the eventual crash landing highlight the role of chance in survival.
