No Inspiration

Each of Roger’s gains come from his own tactics and knowledge, but when free information is placed and offered to him, Roger does not take it. Once taken out of his element of the consumer society—a world in which he helps control and create—Roger lacks strength and knowledge. In the “Crop Dusting” (clip) scene, the strange man across the street from Thornhill notices that a plane is “dustin’ crops where there ain’t no crops.” Although this may merely be read as an observant statement, it is a sign of warning and advice for Thornhill to leave that area while he still has the chance.

The man and the Prairie Stop on Highway 41 setting itself have no effect on Thornhill because of its lack of inspiration. The lack of inspiration can be compared to the lack of wind within the scene. This notable absence suggests a narrative displacement from the normal currents that help bring financial prospects.[6] The lack of wind is emphasized by the 14-wheel semi truck that drives past Roger from the north, bringing the only source of wind in the scene.

As the man approaches the bus to leave, he turns to Roger as a last warning. If this warning was not enough, the camera shot includes an image in the lower right hand corner of the screen of a part of a sign on the door of the bus which reads “Please Watch Your Step.” By ignoring the man’s wisdom, Roger must face the consequences.