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The Man in the Queue · Theme
Luck and Chance
How The Man in the Queue develops Luck and Chance.
Grant repeatedly acknowledges the role of luck in police work, from the 'outrageous piece of luck' that catches criminals to the chance arrival of Mrs. Wallis's confession that prevents a wrongful conviction, emphasizing the unpredictability of justice.
Where it surfaces
- III: Danny Miller
Grant reflects on the 'queer unexpectedness of chance' and pursues the slim hope that a shop assistant might remember selling the tie. Miller's sudden recollection of the victim is a stroke of luck.
- IX: Grant Gets More Information Than He Expected
Grant acknowledges luck's role in police work, and the discovery of Mrs. Everett's prints is a chance breakthrough that shifts the investigation.