Appearances vs. Reality

The book’s detailed descriptions of what investors, clients, and investigators were told about Theranos are juxtaposed with similarly detailed descriptions of what was actually going on with the company to define a very clear sense of jarring differences between appearances and reality. In essence, this structural and narrative juxtaposition of what was being presented and what was actually happening metaphorically echoes the core function of Theranos, as a company: to present an image to private investors and to the public that concealed the truth of what was actually happening.

The narrative also suggests that the idea of appearance being intensely important to perceptions of success originated with its founder and CEO, Elizabeth Holmes. There are clear references to how she cultivated a particular image in an effort to generate a sense of confidence in her, in her goals, and in her company. This cultivation of...