In "Final Account" by Peter Robinson, a poignant moment occurs when Rothwell experiences a cadaveric spasm, clutching a handful of dust just before his death. This image evokes a strong connection to themes of mortality and fear, prompting Banks to reflect on the significance of this act. The grasping of dust symbolizes the fleeting nature of life and the remnants we leave behind.

Banks recalls a quotation by T.S. Eliot, “I will show you fear in a handful of dust,” which serves to deepen the emotional weight of Rothwell’s final moments. This quotation, also linked to an Evelyn Waugh novel, highlights the unsettling interplay between existence and oblivion, encapsulating the essence of fear associated with death. Through this connection, the narrative emphasizes the profound impact of such moments on those who witness them.