Bullying (motif)
The story revolves around young students within the school environment and the dynamic of this setting. Therefore, it highlights bullying as the behavior adopted to determine the social hierarchy on the schoolyard, hallways, and classrooms. The protagonist is a victim of this system that seems to be handled by the teachers as a mere social conditioning. However it attests to its contribution to the cultural violence that is rampant in all spheres of society.
Marta (symbol)
Marta is the foil character to The Jockey since she represents every aspect that he is not. The Jockey is not a genuine friend to Alex and only seeks to torture him for his own enjoyment and revenge. Marta, on the other hand, is a noble friend who looks out for Alex with genuine intentions only. She symbolizes the glimpse of hope in the world full of violence and dishonest people. Marta represents the side of Alex that he risks to lose if he embraces the toxic friendship with Jockey.
Toxic Masculinity (motif)
The story follows the protagonist’s friendship with the violent older kid in his school and their subsequent escapades. Alex and Jockey are on opposite sides of the spectrum in terms of morality and civility. The Jockey embodies the toxic masculinity that is idealized by other male students as a means to climb up the social hierarchy. The novel highlights that society embraces and normalizes bad behavior because it seems like the epitome of ‘coolness.’ Therefore, Alex is drawn into this world that involves lack of empathy and a disregard for rules.
Peer Pressure (motif)
This coming-of-age tale handles the most significant subject when delving into the psyche of young pupils. Alex as the protagonist is thrown in the middle of this dilemma that comes from a conflict between individuality and social acceptance. The Jockey introduces Alex to the harsh realities of the world through his toxic perspective. Consequently, he corrupts Alex’s perception of the world as he gradually embraces violence, anarchy and law-breaking.
Juvenile delinquency (motif)
The story focuses on the cultural violence that afflicts our society but from the outlook of young delinquents. It delves into the makings of a juvenile delinquent through the antagonist The Jockey, as he is an embodiment of it. Alex acts as the blank slate with the potential of being corrupted because of his naivety and susceptibility to influence. The Jockey has been released from juvenile detention following an assault against an officer but has stuck to his violent ways.
