Holmes was a man who exuded charm and grace, captivating those around him. However, despite his appealing demeanor, Belknap felt an unsettling presence that he couldn’t quite articulate. This disquiet was not unique to Belknap; it was a sensation that many would grapple with, especially those in the fields of psychology and criminology. Holmes, like many individuals who mask darker intentions, seemed engaging yet left others feeling that something vital about his humanity was absent.

The complexities of Holmes’ character highlight a broader theme regarding the nature of evil and human behavior. Even as he presented himself with warmth and sociability, there was an underlying dissonance that made people uncomfortable. For decades, professionals would struggle to pinpoint the traits in individuals like Holmes that made them simultaneously appealing yet deeply unsettling. This duality raises questions about the masks people wear and the hidden aspects of personality that can often remain undetected until it is too late.