Children of the Corn

The children in 'Children of the Corn' feel both innocent and terrifying. I wonder what inspired the idea of kids embodying pure evil in this way.

The setting in the small town adds a layer of eeriness that makes the evil seem even more relentless. How effective was this atmosphere for others reading it?

The lack of a clear explanation leaves a haunting impression. Was this meant to suggest that evil is just a force that exists beyond understanding?