How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
She was "nervous," she suffered "little spells"—such were the sheltering expressions used by those close to her. Not that the truth concerning "poor Bonnie's afflictions" was in the least a secret; everyone knew she had been an on-and-off psychiatric patient the last half-dozen years. (1.9)
Bonnie's story provides our first look at mental illness. (We know there's a possibly crazy killer or two on the loose but we haven't met them yet.) We learn that Bonnie suffered episodes of postpartum depression and that her depression never really let up. It's our first look at a flaw in the otherwise perfect Clutter family, and seems to set us up for thinking, "This family's vulnerable." It's pretty clear that nobody really understands Bonnie's depression. There wasn't much treatment available back then.
Quote #2
[…] but Dick became convinced that Perry was that rarity, "a natural born killer,"—absolutely sane but conscienceless, and capable of dealing with or without motive, the coldest-blooded deathblows. It was Dick's theory that such a gift could, under his supervision, be profitably exploited. Having reached this conclusion, he proceeded to woo Perry […] It was important, however, that Perry not suspect this—not until Perry, with his gift, had furthered Dick's ambitions. (1.205)
This must be the all-time dynamic duo of sociopaths. (Well, maybe tied with York and Latham, their homicidal death row roommates.) This quote reveals both Perry's killer instincts and Dick's callous use of them to get what he wants. Here's what psychiatrists believe are symptoms of sociopathy: ability to act witty and charming; skill at flattery and manipulating other people's emotions; breaking the law repeatedly; disregarding the safety of others; frequent lying, stealing, and fighting; no guilt or remorse; inability to tolerate frustration. Beginning to sound like anyone we know? Talk about a textbook case…
Quote #3
In some ways, old Perry was "spooky as hell." Take for example, that temper of his. He could slide into a fury "quicker than ten drunk Indians. And yet, you wouldn't know it. "He might be ready to kill you, but you'd never know it, not to look at or listen to." (2.106)
Perry's sudden explosions of anger scare Dick, too. Now that's saying something. You can see why Perry can be so dangerous.