How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Of such inconsequential beginnings dynasties are begun," he said, and although it was a joking throwaway remark, it hung oddly in the air, like prophecy spoken in jest. (2.8)
This suggests that Ben and Susan were meant to be together. But, of course, Susan dies. So is the element of fate here that Ben is going to drive a stake through her?
Quote #2
It conjured up an image of fate, not blind at all but equipped with sentient 20/20 vision and intent on grinding helpless mortals between the great millstones of the universe to make some unknown bread. (2.20)
Again, fate seems less like God and more like Stephen King, who grinds all his characters up in order to make spooky biscuits. Not that we're complaining.
Quote #3
He thought about deals with the devil. (4.236)
Crockett is thinking about deals with the devil right after he bullies Hank Peters in order to prevent him from going to the police and telling them all about having seen Ralphie's clothes in the Marsten basement. This is one of the most deliberately evil acts in the book. Straker sacrifices Ralphie for his unholy lusts, but Crockett sacrifices him for money he doesn't even need. If there's one act of free will that brings doom on Jerusalem's Lot, this would be it.