In Ken Kesey's "Sometimes a Great Notion," the author explores the concept of blame and how it can serve as a coping mechanism for individuals. By attributing personal struggles to uncontrollable elements, such as rain, people find a sense of peace in redirecting their frustrations. This act of blaming allows for a release of responsibility, making challenges feel less daunting.

Kesey also highlights the futility of seeking a definitive source for one's hardships, suggesting that attributing blame to indifferent forces, like the "Arm of the Lord," can create a comforting narrative. This perspective emphasizes human tendencies to externalize guilt and maintain hope in an unpredictable world, as such blame provides a shield against the chaos of existence.