Speech and Debate

In the novel, speech and debate competitions symbolize the use of language for domination rather than constructive communication. When the story illustrates speech and debate competitions, it highlights strategies such as ‘the spread,’ which are designed to win technical victories rather than engage in meaningful debate and communication. The novel portrays such dynamics as dangerous to constrictive forms of real-life debate and communication.

Jane’s Book

Jane’s book symbolizes the necessity of advancing feminist ideals in a culture of patriarchy and toxic masculinity. After experiencing much misogyny from her male colleagues, Jane decided to write a book about patriarchy, misogyny, and feminism. The book became highly popular, especially among women, but it elicited outrage from many misogynistic men. Somewhat ironically, this outrage only served to further prove the points of Jane’s book.

Jonathan’s Affair

Jonathan’s affair symbolizes the destructive effects...