The Murder's Effect on Holcomb

The murder of the Clutters affected the entire town of Holcomb, Kansas. Holcomb is a small town, approximately 300 people, and the loss of even four can have a lasting impact on the citizens of Holcomb, and how they go about living their lives. The Clutter family was one of the most well known in Holcomb, and seemed to be a friendly with almost everyone. They each played roles in society where they could interact with other people in the community. For instance, Mr. Clutters affiliations with the Church, and the text describes him as “a die-hard community booster, considered such defections an affront to community spirit” (21). Nancy also was involved in the community and tried to contribute to anything she could. She is described as the ideal young member of a community. “A straight-A student, the president of her class, a leader in the 4-H program and the Young Methodists League, a skilled rider, an excellent musician” (18). Mr. Clutter and Nancy were the ones who held this small community together. This was clearly shown when over 1,000 people attended their funeral, more than three times as many people that lived in Holcomb. Also, their murder frightened others in the community that murder could strike again. People, like the McCoy’s and the Ashida’s decided to move away. The McCoy’s strictly out of fear and shock, because Mrs. McCoy simply couldn’t sleep. The Dewey’s were also affected by the murder, for Mr. Dewey was the head sheriff inspecting the case. One night, just after the murder Mr. Dewey was receiving an insane amount of phone calls regarding the case. This kept him and his family awake the whole night. Alvin Deweys wife, Marie asked him, “Alvin, do you think we’ll ever get back to normal living?... ‘Alvin answer me, Do you think we’ll ever have a normal life again’ He started to reply, but the telephone stopped him” (105). This example serves as a metaphor to describe Holcomb after this tragedy. People continue to question whether their lives will ever be the same, and then they are reminded of the murder itself.