Inman reflects on the chaotic flight patterns of vultures, comparing them to the randomness of coffee grounds settling in a cup. He suggests that anyone can interpret these random events as prophetic if they believe that the future is doomed to be worse than the past. His perspective implies a pessimistic outlook where time heads towards an uncertain and threatening destination.

Inman's feelings deepen when he considers the historical significance of events like the Battle of Fredericksburg, suggesting that such markers indicate a bleak trajectory for humanity. He fears that if society continues on its current path, it might eventually lead to a dire situation where people turn against each other for survival.