Chapter 5 Summary and Analysis

James wakes up to discover his face has been bleeding all night and that he is still suffering from the chills and mood swings of withdrawal. Regardless, Roy pesters James to thoroughly clean the group toilets. The relationship between James and Roy centers around power. Roy believes that he has power over James and attempts to exert it in petty ways, like reminding him of the rules of the Clinic and persisting in making sure that James does his job. James, in return, rebels against the assertion of authority.

Hank drives James to the dentist, and James and Hank immediately form a connection. Their conversation comes easily and James enjoys the ride with a man who does not attempt to patronize or control him. This is the first time that the reader sees James open up to another man. He immediately...