The Word vs. The Void

The major external struggle in the novel Running with Demons by Terry Brooks is between the forces of good and evil in the world. The Word is the force of good, which John Ross and Nest Freemark serve, while the Void is the force of evil, which the demon serves. Each side uses magic to assist themselves in the struggle. John Ross has a magical staff he uses, while Nest can knock down people if she makes eye contact with them. The demon has the power of persuasion and can convince people and animals to bend to his will. The central fight in the novel is between these two sides. John Ross comes to Hopewell specifically because the balance of power is shifting towards the Void, and that means that the end of the world is imminent. Nest Freemark is in a unique position...