Violence as Control

Through Daniel's narrative, the author explores the individual's attempts to assert control over others through violence. As a young man, Daniel is often an object of bullying. Isolated from others and outside the acceptance of his community, Daniel finds balance through his relationship with Linda. But when Daniel believes Linda has been unfaithful, he fears he is losing the only person who has allowed him an authentic sense of self. His love for Linda grows into claustrophobic protection. Paranoid that other men will steal Linda away from him, Daniel tries to control everything Linda does, everywhere she goes, and everyone she sees.

His love becomes desperate and his behavior increasingly violent. By controlling Linda physically and emotionally, Daniel feels he has power over his own identity and his life with Linda. His jealousy and anger escalate over the course of their relationship. When Linda...