Here's how the theme plays out:
* Fear as a driving force: The story revolves around a group of people trapped in a house during a snowstorm. They are terrified by a series of strange events and become increasingly suspicious of each other. Their fear fuels their paranoia, leading them to misinterpret events and accuse each other of sinister actions.
* The ambiguity of truth: Rinehart masterfully creates a sense of uncertainty. The reader, like the characters, is never fully sure what is real and what is imagined. This ambiguity intensifies the fear and suspicion, forcing the reader to question their own perceptions.
* The destructive nature of suspicion: The constant suspicion and accusations within the group lead to a breakdown of trust and communication. Their fear ultimately isolates them from each other, making them vulnerable and unable to cooperate.
* The potential for redemption: While the story ends on a somewhat ambiguous note, there is a glimmer of hope. The characters, having experienced the destructive power of fear, may be able to learn from their mistakes and move forward with a newfound understanding.
Ultimately, "Wait Till Helen Comes" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of fear and suspicion, highlighting how they can lead to paranoia, mistrust, and destructive behavior.