“I’m saying that the death penalty has always been an abomination, even before the CAPE program. Prison as it exists is an abomination. Right now, the fact is, people are doing the exact kinds of harm you’re describing. Prisons haven’t deterred the harm they’re meant to deter. They’re a failed experiment.”
The discussion revolves around the societal debate regarding the death penalty, the prison system, and abolitionism. Marissa as an abolitionist engages in a conversation with a woman who questions the idea of releasing convicted murderers and rapists. She articulates her perspective by explaining her stance against the current prison system. Moreover, she argues that the existing system is fundamentally flawed as it causes more harm to individuals and communities. The other woman's concern centers on the potential release of dangerous criminals back into society. Marissa's response challenges this fear by suggesting that the issues the woman raises are symptoms of a larger problem such as poverty. She criticizes the way the criminal justice system shifts the blame to a society that neglects its members. It challenges traditional views by championing alternative approaches to justice and rehabilitation.
“A home is an origin story. A home is a thing to carry. A home is a wild field of energy that floods floods floods.”
In this scene, Staxxx is emotionally distressed as she grapples with the shock of being in a new place. She is about to embark on Civic Service obligations in a new city, which involves the impending BattleGround matches. After being dropped in this chaos, the concept of a home takes on a profound meaning for Staxxx. It is not a physical location but a sense of belonging and purpose. With these institutional restrictions, Staxxx is seeking a sense of grounding to find an identity. She longs to be called home and find completeness with another person—in this case, Thurwar. Later, Staxxx and Thurwar signify their bond and unity by assuring each other. It highlights their shared journey and the strength they draw from one another in this challenging environment.
“When you think of us, remember that just because something is, doesn’t mean it can’t change, and just because you haven’t seen something before, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.”
Thurwar is about to enter a high-stakes event within the CAPE program. As she stands among the spectators, she embodies a feeling of transformation and empowerment. The crowd is fervently cheering her name heralding her as a symbol of hope. She conveys this powerful message of change, resilience, and the potential to challenge the status quo. Also, she urges the audience to embrace the possibility of change by reminding them that nothing is impossible despite never seeing it. This statement encapsulates the message in the novel of reevaluating the existing systems and challenging the norm. It signifies the potential for breaking free from the confines of the established societal constructs. Thurwar's words also prompt reflection on the concept of reshaping perspectives.
