Father Sargent Quotes

As the novel reaches its climax and falling action, Russell demonstrates that Susan is free and has gained control over her life as she is no longer possessed by a demonic creature. Firstly, when Father Sargent calls the orphanage, he has a short conversation with Susan:
Susan: Hello, Father.
Father Sargent: Hello yourself, young lady. Merry Christmas
Susan: Thanks. The same to you.
Father Sargent: How are you?
Susan: Wonderful! (Russell 133). The fact that Susan responds with the word “Wonderful” shows how positive she feels. This clarifies that Susan is in control of her feelings, unlike in the past where she “laughed” and “screamed” uncontrollably . In addition, Russell illustrates that the setting of the novel has shifted; Susan is talking to Father Sargent in a bright environment now, Christmas atmosphere, which could highlight Susan’s deliverance from evil. This proves to be a great contrast in comparison to where she was in the past, being dark and gloomy as well as sin-natured. Furthermore, when Father Sargent is still on the phone with Susan, she tells him that “in about a year and a half I’ll be eighteen, you know. I won’t be an orphan anymore, technically. I can leave” (Russell 134). Here, the use of the words “I can leave” shows that Susan is free and able to take a decision on her own. The fact that Susan begins to take decisions
If he does—don’t fight too hard” to which “Susan [makes] a sound of scorn” (Russell 134). Here, the sound of scorn illustrates that Susan does not have to agree with Father Sargent since the main character is now in control of herself and has the power of taking decisions candidly. Susan becomes an autonomous person when the demon left her body, she is now capable of self-legislation and is able to make judgments. Therefore, we can see that Susan is in full control of herself and is taking conscious decisions as she is no longer possessed by the