In Joyce Carol Oates' "Bellefleur," a sense of inevitability permeates the atmosphere as the story unfolds. The narrative suggests that a pivotal event occurs one fateful night, setting off a chain reaction of events that will alter the characters' lives forever. This idea of a definitive beginning resonates throughout the novel, leaving readers to ponder its significance and consequences.

The quote reflects the mysterious nature of fate, implying that once certain actions are set into motion, they resolve into a relentless progression that cannot be reversed. Oates expertly captures the tension and suspense surrounding these moments, drawing the reader into a world where destiny is both inescapable and shrouded in uncertainty.