Demonstrating a keen understanding of human nature, Mr Starbuck.

Being fair, they have a lot to be angry about :D

I am so confused about what is happening here. I mean, I know intellectually that Clare is somehow transferring Creationism to the assembled crowd, but ... is it being transmitted by collective grief?

Not precisely, but I need to make this clearer, and sooner, if I can find a way that's not expository :D