Mystery

Mystery is an important theme in the novel “The Whites” by Richard Price. In the novel, mystery involves the unknown. There are multiple instances of mystery in the novel, with each adding to or fueling the plot in some way. Only a few of the smaller mysteries remain unsolved.

When the novel begins, Billy’s task as a Night Watch detective is to solve the crimes and mysteries he encounters. These range from simple robberies and domestic calls to violence and murder. The supposed theft of an Olympic Silver Medal and a gang fight are among those calls Billy faces on Saint Patrick’s Day night, in addition to the killing of Jeffrey Bannion. Bannion’s killing is a mystery which will open up old wounds from the past for Billy and for all of the members of the Wild Geese. Two small mysteries never solved...