How does the event of the snowball affect Dunstan's perception of responsibility?

The incident with the snowball is a pivotal moment in Dunstan Ramsay's life that significantly shapes his understanding of responsibility. When the snowball, thrown by him as a boy, accidentally leads to a tragic accident, Dunstan is left with a profound sense of guilt and remorse. This event becomes a turning point where he begins to recognize the weight of his actions and their unintended consequences.

From this point onward, Dunstan develops a strong sense of accountability for his decisions, both in personal and broader contexts. He carries the psychological burden of this incident throughout his life, which leads him to be more introspective and aware of how his actions impact others. Thus, the snowball incident serves not only as a moment of crisis but also as a catalyst that instills a lifelong commitment to being responsible, making choices that consider the repercussions on those around him. This reflects the central theme in "Fifth Business," where personal responsibility plays a crucial role in character development and moral growth.